Propagation of Radius-Tailored Laser Pulses Over Extended Distances in a Uniform Plasma

Abstract

A Maxwell-fluid model is described, which allows simulation of laser pulses over extended distances (multiple diffraction lengths) in an underdense plasma. This model is used to simulate radius-tailored laser pulses, which can propagate over such distances with minimal distortion in a uniform plasma. Theoretical model equations governing the choice of radius tailoring are also given. A radius-tailored pulse has constant power approximately equal to the critical power for relativistic guiding over the length of the pulse and a spot size at focus that varies over the length of the pulse. A laser pulse configuration of this type can be constructed from a series of ultra-short Gaussian pulses. Laser-plasma, Particle acceleration.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 18, 1994
Accession Number
ADA280405

Entities

People

  • Eric H. Esarey
  • Glenn R. Joyce
  • Jonathan F. Krall
  • Phillip A. Sprangle

Organizations

  • United States Naval Research Laboratory

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Amplitude
  • Computer Simulations
  • Diffraction
  • Electron Density
  • Electrons
  • Equations
  • Fluids
  • Group Velocity
  • Intensity
  • Laser Pulses
  • Laser Spots
  • Military Research
  • Peak Power
  • Physics
  • Raman Scattering
  • Simulations
  • Wave Equations

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Linear Algebra
  • Optical Physics and Photonics.
  • Plasma Physics / Magnetohydrodynamics

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy