Making spectral shape measurements in inverse Compton scattering a tool for advanced diagnostic applications

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• High-Energy Physics
• Laser-Plasma Interactions

Background:

• Relativistic electron beams interacting with high-power lasers produce secondary light via inverse Compton scattering.
• Understanding this interaction is crucial for both secondary light generation and precise electron beam diagnostics.
• Current measurements can be misinterpreted due to complex parameter interdependencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of inverse Compton scattering as an advanced diagnostic tool for electron beams.
• To refine established scaling laws for spectral bandwidth and redshift by analyzing laser intensity and electron beam emittance.
• To explore the nonlinear regime and the emergence of higher harmonic radiation.

Main Methods:

• Investigated the influence of laser intensity and electron beam emittance on inverse Compton scattering.
• Refined scaling laws for spectral bandwidth and mean scattered photon energy redshift.
• Analyzed the spectral resolution of higher harmonic radiation in the nonlinear regime.

Main Results:

• Established refined scaling laws for quantitatively predicting the spectral shape of scattered light.
• Spectrally resolved higher harmonic radiation, demonstrating its rise with increasing laser intensity in the nonlinear regime.
• Achieved unprecedented agreement between experimental findings and 3D radiation simulations.

Conclusions:

• Inverse Compton scattering can be effectively utilized as an advanced diagnostic tool for electron beams.
• The study provides a quantitatively well-matching prediction of spectral shape, enhancing measurement interpretation.
• Findings support the characterization of electron beams, especially those generated by laser plasma acceleration.