High-repetition-rate solid tape target delivery system for ultra-intense laser-matter interaction at CLPU
The VEGA-3 laser system at the Centro de Láseres Pulsados (CLPU) delivers laser pulses up to 1PW at 1Hz repetition rate, focused to intensities up to 2.5e20W/cm2. A versatile and compact targetry solution suitable for this repetition rate is presented. The system can operate in the challenging petawatt laser environment close to the laser-plasma interaction. Strips are spooled in a tape target system to deliver a solid density target to the laser focus for every shot. Results are presented for different tape materials and thicknesses. Experimental ion spectra are recorded by a Thomson Parabola Ion Spectrometer coupled with a scintillator screen; and an antenna array is used for the characterization of electromagnetic pulses. The results of both diagnostics show a good shot-to-shot stability of the system.