Dresden Laser Acceleration Source
The Laser Dresden Laser Acceleration Source (DRACO) is a high-performance laser from the Helmholtz Center Dresden-Rossendorf that was put into operation in 2008.
The research device, which cost several million euros, was the most powerful laser in Germany and one of the most powerful in Europe with up to 150 terawatts at the time of commissioning. The ultrashort pulse laser was supplied by Amplitude Technologies , France, and is based on a titanium-sapphire laser with subsequent amplification of the pulses. Thanks to extensions, the laser now has a maximum output of around 800 terawatts.
Research priorities
The main research interests are the investigation and optimization of the interaction of laser radiation with matter to accelerate protons and electrons. Of particular interest are:
- the actual acceleration process,
- the investigation of the beam properties of the accelerated protons and electrons and their influence and
- the utilization of radiation, e.g. B. for oncology, materials research and nuclear fusion.
The high-intensity laser is located at the HZDR in the immediate vicinity of the ELBE electron accelerator , which means that the post-acceleration of conventionally generated electron beams or the generation of monochromatic X-rays by collision of photons with electrons ( Thomson scattering ) can be investigated.
Web links
Individual evidence
- ↑ Press release: . FZD. May 8, 2008. Retrieved November 22, 2011.