LONG-PULSE LASER-PLASMA INTERACTIONS AT 1012-1015 W-CM2

Laser-plasma interaction physics including absorption, plasma formation, heating, plasma expansion, and energy transport, are examined for 3-nsec Nd-laser irradiances between 1012 and 1015 W/cm2. Efficient energy deposition and conditions favorable to ablative acceleration are found at 1012-1013 W/cm2, whereas reduced absorption, hot electrons, and fast ions are seen at 7×1014 W/cm2. Suitability of the observed physics to pellet fusion is discussed. © 1979 The American Physical Society.