Laser-driven Plasma Wakefield: Propagation Effects

TL;DR

This paper discusses how laser propagation and plasma wave excitation influence electron acceleration in laser-driven wakefield systems, emphasizing the importance of propagation distance and methods like dielectric capillaries for extending it.

Contribution

It provides an analysis of laser guiding techniques and plasma wave measurement methods to optimize electron acceleration in low-density plasmas.

Findings

Laser guiding by dielectric capillaries can extend propagation length.

Low plasma density regimes are promising for ultra-relativistic electron energies.

Measurement techniques for plasma waves over long distances are developed.

Abstract

In the frame of laser-driven wakefield acceleration, the main characteristics oflaser propagation and plasma wave excitation are described, with an emphasis onthe role of propagation distance for electron acceleration. To optimizeinteraction length and maximize energy gain, operation at low plasma density isthe most promising regime for achieving ultra-relativistic energies. Among thepossible methods of extending propagation length at low plasma density, laserguiding by grazing incidence reflection at the wall of dielectric capillarytubes has several assets. The properties of laser guiding and the measurement ofplasma waves over long distances are presented.