Self-modulated-laser wakefield acceleration

Abstract

A new configuration of the laser wakefield accelerator is proposed in which enhanced acceleration is achieved via resonant self-modulation of the laser pulse. This requires laser power in excess of the critical power for relativistic guiding and a plasma wavelength short compared to the laser pulse-length. Relativistic and density wake effects strongly modulate the laser pulse at the plasma wavelength, resonantly exciting the plasma wave and leading to enhanced acceleration.<>