Ultra-Intense Laser Pulse Propagation in Gas, Cluster-Gasses and Plasma

University Of Maryland, College Park, College Park MD

Investigators

Abstract

This project is a continuation and expansion of an existing program in the development of theories and models capable of describing the varied phenomena expected to influence the propagation of ultra-intense, ultra-short laser pulses. The main effort of the research centers on the development of computational models and analytic theories of intense laser pulse propagation in guiding structures and in cluster plasmas. Cluster plasmas are of interest due to their strong interaction with laser light and resulting x-ray emission, which has many potential uses. Cluster plasmas also have interesting nonlinear optical properties including self-focusing, frequency broadening, harmonic generation, and scattering, which are largely unexplored. In the broader sense, the work should enhance the infrastructure for research and education, as the computing expertise and equipment will be available to students learning advanced computational techniques.