Dresden 2026 – scientific programme

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AKBP: Arbeitskreis Beschleunigerphysik

AKBP 6: Plasma Accelerators, Ions II

AKBP 6.4: Talk

Tuesday, March 10, 2026, 12:00–12:15, SCH/A117

Investigation of the temporal laser contrast by optical probing of cryogenic hydrogen jet targets — •Thomas Streil — Helmholtz Zentrum Dresden Rossendorf — Technische Universität Dresden

Precise control of experimental parameters in laser-plasma-based ion accelerators is essential for improving acceleration performance. Temporal laser contrast is particularly critical, as it determines pre-plasma formation on the target before the main pulse. Understanding the onset of plasma pre-expansion is therefore vital for realistic simulations and insight into acceleration mechanisms. We investigated this onset by observing laser-induced breakdown, seen as a transition of the target to an opaque state once the electron density exceeds the critical density for the probe wavelength.

Using the DRACO petawatt laser, we scanned intrinsic contrast on a cryogenic hydrogen jet. The method provides a useful correction factor for autocorrelator-based contrast measurements, and additional target characterization and development are presented.

Keywords: Laser induced breakdown; temporal contrast; plasma pre expansion; pump probe experiment; cryogenic hydrogen jets