title: Ultrahigh-intensity KrF* laser system.
abstract: The operational characteristics of an ultrahigh-intensity subpicosecond large-aperture KrF* laser system are described. Measurements show the achievement of a focal spot diameter of less than 1.7 microm. Combined with measurements of the pulse width and pulse energy, this yields an average intensity of ~2 x 10(19) W/cm(2), a value corresponding to a peak electric field of ~24 (e/a(0)(2)). Light sources of this nature will find application in a broad range of studies of the nonlinear properties of matter in the strong-field regime.
authors.forename: T S
authors.initials: TS
authors.lastname: Luk
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: McPherson
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Gibson
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Boyer
authors.forename: C K
authors.initials: CK
authors.lastname: Rhodes