A New Type of Plasma Wakefield Accelerator Driven by Magnetowaves

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel plasma wakefield acceleration method driven by magnetowaves, utilizing high-frequency whistler modes, with simulations showing high coherence and potential for high-gradient acceleration.

Contribution

It proposes a new plasma wakefield acceleration concept driven by magnetowaves, distinct from traditional methods, supported by computer simulations demonstrating its effectiveness.

Findings

High coherence of plasma wakefield observed in simulations

Potential for high-gradient acceleration over many plasma wavelengths

Applicability to both celestial and terrestrial accelerators

Abstract

We present a new concept for a plasma wakefield accelerator driven by magnetowaves (MPWA). This concept was originally proposed as a viable mechanism for the "cosmic accelerator" that would accelerate cosmic particles to ultra high energies in the astrophysical setting. Unlike the more familiar Plasma Wakefield Accelerator (PWFA) and the Laser Wakefield Accelerator (LWFA) where the drivers, the charged-particle beam and the laser, are independently existing entities, MPWA invokes the high-frequency and high-speed whistler mode as the driver, which is a medium wave that cannot exist outside of the plasma. Aside from the difference in drivers, the underlying mechanism that excites the plasma wakefield via the ponderomotive potential is common. Our computer simulations show that under appropriate conditions, the plasma wakefield maintains very high coherence and can sustain high-gradient acceleration over many plasma wavelengths. We suggest that in addition to its celestial application, the MPWA concept can also be of terrestrial utility. A proof-of-principle experiment on MPWA would benefit both terrestrial and celestial accelerator concepts.