Electro-optic spatial decoding on the spherical-wavefront Coulomb fields of plasma electron sources

Area of Science:

• Accelerator Physics
• Plasma Physics
• Optics

Background:

• Accurate detection of relativistic electron beams is crucial for accelerator physics.
• Electro-optic diagnostics offer non-destructive, single-shot measurement capabilities for electron beams.
• Laser wakefield acceleration (LWFA) is a promising technique for generating high-quality electron beams.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the application of electro-optic spatial decoding technique in laser wakefield acceleration.
• To accurately characterize the Coulomb field structure of relativistic electron beams produced by LWFA.
• To develop a generalized temporal mapping relationship for electro-optic signals with spherical wavefronts.

Main Methods:

• Experimental measurements using an electro-optic crystal placed near the gas target.
• Analytical calculations to model the Coulomb field structure.
• Numerical simulations to validate experimental and analytical findings.

Main Results:

• The Coulomb field of the electron beam was experimentally demonstrated to possess a spherical wavefront.
• This spherical wavefront model contradicts previous widely used models.
• A generally applicable temporal mapping relationship was derived for spherical wavefront signals.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a more accurate model for the Coulomb field of electron beams in LWFA.
• This research enhances the utility of electro-optic diagnostics in laser plasma acceleration.
• The findings contribute to improved understanding and control of relativistic electron beams.