Relativistic Electron Streaming Instabilities Modulate Proton Beams Accelerated in Laser-Plasma Interactions (original) (raw)

Experimental evidence shows that multi-MeV protons accelerated in relativistic laser-plasma interactions are influenced by strong electromagnetic field modulations. These modulations arise from the relativistic electron Weibel instability when a preplasma is formed behind a solid-density hydrogen target. Proton analysis reveals the generation of high magnetic and electric fields, consistent with simulations, which impose significant constraints on preplasma conditions for effective proton acceleration in applications such as inertial fusion and medical treatments.