Optimization of high repetition-rate laser wakefield accelerators using machine-learning techniques

POSTER

Abstract

Many potential applications of laser accelerator sources require operation at high repetition rate. Here, 20 milliJoule pulses are generated at kilohertz repetition rate for pulse self-compression and laser wakefield acceleration experiments. A genetic algorithm is implemented using a Dazzler acousto-optic programmable dispersive filter with the laser pulse characteristics from FROG measurements or wakefield electron beam signal optimized onto several different masks used as feedback. This procedure allows a heuristic search for the optimal laser pulse phase characteristics up to 4th order to produce a desired arbitrary wakefield electron beam or a well self-compressed pulse. Additionally, in progress is the implementation of a spiral phase plate in order to produce a $\text{Laguerre-Gaussian}_{01}$ laser pulse with optical angular momentum. We’re investigating the use of this exotic beam for laser wakefield acceleration experiments.

Authors

  • Jon Murphy

    University of Michigan

  • Yong Ma

    Center of Ultrafast Optical Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA, University of Michigan, University of Michigan -Ann Arbor

  • Milos Burger

    University of Michigan

  • John Nees

    University of Michigan, Center for Ultrafast Optical Science, University of Michigan

  • A.G.R. Thomas

    Center for Ultrafast Optical Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, Center of Ultrafast Optical Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA, Center for Ultrafast Optical Science, University of Michigan, University of Michigan, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, U. of Michigan

  • Karl Krushelnick

    Center for Ultrafast Optical Science, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, University of Michigan, Center for Ultrafast Optical Science, University of Michigan