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We present results from two new techniques for the generation of meter-scale, low density (∼1017 cm−3 on axis) plasma waveguides, the “two-Bessel” technique, and the “self-waveguiding” technique. Plasma waveguides of this density and length range are needed for demonstration of a ∼10 GeV laser wakefield accelerator module, key for future staging for a ∼TeV lepton collider. Both techniques require the use of high quality ultrashort pulse Bessel beams to efficiently and uniformly ionize hydrogen gas in meter-scale supersonic gas jets via optical field ionization. We review these two techniques, describe our meter-scale gas jets, and present a new method for correction of optical aberrations in Bessel beams. Finally, we briefly present results from recent experiments employing one of our techniques, demonstrating quasi-monoenergetic acceleration of ∼5 GeV electron bunches in 20 cm long, low density plasma waveguides.
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This content will become publicly available on May 1, 2026
Development of a high charge 10 GeV laser electron accelerator
Low-density meter-scale plasma waveguides produced in meter-scale supersonic gas jets have paved the way for recent demonstrations of all-optical multi-gigaelectronvolt laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA). This paper reviews recent advances by the University of Maryland, which have enabled these results, focusing on the development of elongated supersonic gas jets up to ∼1 m in length, experimental and simulation studies of plasma waveguide formation, and a new three-stage model for relativistic pulse propagation dynamics in these waveguides. We also present results from recent LWFA experiments conducted at the Laboratory for Advanced Lasers and Extreme Photonics at Colorado State University demonstrating high charge, low divergence electron bunches to ∼10 GeV, with laser-to-electron beam efficiency of at least ∼30%.
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- Award ID(s):
- 2010511
- PAR ID:
- 10617443
- Publisher / Repository:
- AIP
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Physics of Plasmas
- Volume:
- 32
- Issue:
- 5
- ISSN:
- 1070-664X
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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