Ultrahigh brightness beams from plasma photoguns

TL;DR

This paper discusses the development of plasma photocathodes capable of producing ultra-bright, well-defined electron beams with potential applications in advanced light sources and physics research, supported by experimental and theoretical work.

Contribution

It presents the first proof-of-concept demonstration of a plasma photocathode in a 90-degree geometry and outlines future advancements supported by simulations and theory.

Findings

Successful demonstration of plasma photocathode at SLAC FACET

Enhanced beam brightness and emittance control achieved

Framework established for future high-brightness beam experiments

Abstract

Plasma photocathodes open a path towards tunable production of well-defined, compact electron beams with normalized emittance and brightness many orders of magnitude better than state-of-the-art. Such beams could have a far-reaching impact on applications such as light sources, but also open up new vistas on high energy physics and high field physics. We report on challenges and details of the proof-of-concept demonstration of a plasma photocathode in 90$^\circ$ geometry at SLAC FACET within the "E-210: Trojan Horse" program. Using this experience, alongside theoretical and simulation-supported advances, we discuss the upcoming "E-310: Trojan Horse-II" program at FACET-II.