Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
7925120 | Optics Communications | 2018 | 4 Pages |
Abstract
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.
Related Topics
Physical Sciences and Engineering
Materials Science
Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
Authors
Jinpu Lin, James H. Easter, Karl Krushelnick, Mark Mathis, Jian Dong, A.G.R. Thomas, John Nees,