A detailed simulation of the spectra produced from a bromine dot target by laser irradiation is presented. This study incorporates the results of a two‐dimensional hydrodynamic calculation and an extensive atomic rate data base to generate synthetic spectra under conditions that match those of an earlier experiment. A dynamic picture of the plasma’s evolution is given that is consistent with experimental results. Overall plasma characteristics are calculated that produce spectra largely in agreement with those observed. Also, sensitive dielectronic recombination features are reproduced corroborating the adequacy of this approach.