An optically multiplexed single-shot time-resolved probe of laser-plasma dynamics

Davidson, Z. E. and Gonzalez Izquierdo, B. and Higginson, A. and Lancaster, K. L. and Williamson, S. D. R. and King, M. and Farley, D. and Neely, D. and McKenna, P. and Gray, R. J. (2019) An optically multiplexed single-shot time-resolved probe of laser-plasma dynamics. Optics Express, 27 (4). pp. 4416-4423. ISSN 1094-4087 (https://doi.org/10.1364/OE.27.004416)

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Abstract

We introduce a new approach to temporally resolve ultrafast micron-scale processes via the use of a multi-channel optical probe. We demonstrate that this technique enables highly precise time-resolved, two-dimensional spatial imaging of intense laser pulse propagation dynamics, plasma formation and laser beam filamentation within a single pulse over four distinct time frames. The design, development and optimization of the optical probe system is presented, as are representative experimental results from the first implementation of the multi-channel probe with a high-power laser pulse interaction with a helium gas jet target.

ORCID iDs

Davidson, Z. E., Gonzalez Izquierdo, B., Higginson, A., Lancaster, K. L., Williamson, S. D. R. ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8457-4858, King, M. ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3370-6141, Farley, D., Neely, D., McKenna, P. ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8061-7091 and Gray, R. J. ORCID logoORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0610-9595;
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