Petawatt Peak Powers and Beyond

This course introduces the student to the science and technology underpinning petawatt-class (1015 W) laser systems with the goal of developing a basic understanding of the engineering considerations required to achieve today’s state-of-the-art, high-intensity laser performance. Since the first demonstration of chirped-pulse amplification (CPA) in 1985, significant technological advances have produced dramatic increases in pulse energies with ever-shorter temporal durations and near diffraction-limited focusing. Along with an introduction to ultrashort pulse generation and chirped pulse amplification, this course will cover technological advances in broadband laser amplifiers, techniques for ultrashort pulse characterization, and methods for minimizing pulse widths and focal spot sizes. These topics will be addressed in the context of the system engineering considerations necessary to meet performance requirements for a given application. This course is relevant to scientists and engineers who build or use CPA-based ultrafast laser systems for scientific or industrial applications and for anyone interested in gaining an appreciation of the substantial technological advances required to achieve today’s state-of-the-art, high-intensity laser system performance and the significant challenges that lie ahead in the pursuit of even higher focused intensities.