Particle-in-cell simulations of ultra intense laser pulses propagating through overdense plasma for fast-ignitor and radiography applications

Zohar (two-dimensions, particle-in-cell) [C. K. Birdsall and A. B. Langdon, Plasma Physics via Computer Simulation (McGraw-Hill, New York, 1985)] simulations of ultra intense laser beams boring into overdense plasmas whose parameters are guided by the fast-ignitor concept and radiography applications are presented. Complex low frequency magnetic field structures, narrow channel formation, and beam deflection are all evident. Particle tracking diagnostics elucidate the nature of the currents that produce and interact with these static magnetic fields which are larger than 10(9) G for simulations at 10(21) W/cm(2) in a 50n(c) plasma. Tracking electron orbits provides a more complete understanding of the hot electron generation as the short pulse, high intensity laser penetrates overdense plasma. Particles which constitute the current in the narrow channel are partially confined by the low frequency magnetic field. In contrast, the return current particles on the outside of the channel are defocused by the high magnetic field and move away from the channel. [S1070-664X(99)91605-1].