Focus optimization at relativistic intensity with high numerical aperture and adaptive optics

Improved focusing of laser beams using high numerical aperture systems is an efficient route to increasing intensities in the ultrafast regime to relativistic levels. We experimentally demonstrate a new method of optimizing the focus of a high-power laser, using second harmonic generation at full intensity in a low-pressure gas to provide a figure of merit for optimizing the shape of a deformable mirror via a genetic algorithm. Nonlinear and thermal aberrations are corrected, and aberrations introduced by filters are avoided. The method is applied to focus a millijoule, short pulse (30 fs), high repetition rate laser system to relativistic intensity in both near IR and mid IR regimes.