Physics of Superpulses in Storage Ring Free-Electron Lasers

Abstract

Contradictory to the widespread perception, storage ring free-electron lasers with substantial net gain can generate peak lasing power reaching GW levels in the so-called superpulse mode. This power level is sufficient for studies of nonlinear processes and efficient intracavity harmonic generation. This letter describes the physics of the superpulses and a phase-space refreshment in the electron beam responsible for this phenomenon.