High-energy ions

The ion acceleration beamline (laser-irradiation of solid targets via the Target Normal Sheath Acceleration mechanism) features a multiple target holder with 800 targets that can be shot automatically at a maximum repetition rate of ~0.625 Hz with ~4 pumping cycles per day. The 100 mm-wide laser beam is focused down to an intensity of 1.3 x 1020 W/cm2. The main ion detector is a Thomson Parabola with a MicroChannel Plate that enables high repetition-rate shots. On the proton axis, a mini-chamber allows experiments interacting with the protons, e.g. for laser-PIXE experiments. Optional protons can be used in ambient air as well.