Propagation dynamics of ultra-intense laser pulses

Ultra intense lasers can produce a number of secondary sources with unique properties which are ideal for a wide range of penetrating or remote sensing applications. The propagation dynamics relevant to producing and measuring potentially useful effects which could enhance or control different characteristics such as collimation, flux, etc. will be studied. Remote sensing techniques employing these novel short pulsed sources will be explored and the potential for improved imaging capability will be investigated both experimentally and via simulation. This work will be conducted collaboratively with DSTL on experiments, where the driving laser duration can be from 10's ps to 10's fs. Consideration of how higher repetition rate lasers can be matched to and optimised for future penetrating or remote sensing applications will also be explored.