Abstract

Since the discovery of ion beams accelerated by ultra intense lasers many applications have been investigated in basic research, fusion and accelerator technology. Ions accelerated by TNSA, BOA and other mechanisms promise to become a new and exciting tool for these applications, provided a good control on the beam parameter and the availability of appropriate laser systems.

We report on recent developments with focus on experiments to control nd combine laser accelerated ion beams with beam transport structures and new results using target geometries for ion driven fast ignition.

New targets also allow for the generation of ion beams matched to the needs of generating warm dense matter and to explore material properties which are relevant for astrophysics and fusion research in small and medium scale experimental facilities.

© 2010 Optical Society of America