Experimental capabilities of 04 PW, 1 shot/min Scarlet laser facility for high energy density science

Abstract

We report on the recently completed 400 TW upgrade to the Scarlet laser at The Ohio State University. Scarlet is a Ti:sapphire-based ultrashort pulse system that delivers >10 J in 30 fs pulses to a 2 μm full width at half-maximum focal spot, resulting in intensities exceeding 5×10²¹ W/cm². The laser fires at a repetition rate of once per minute and is equipped with a suite of on-demand and on-shot diagnostics detailed here, allowing for rapid collection of experimental statistics. As part of the upgrade, the entire laser system has been redesigned to facilitate consistent, characterized high intensity data collection at high repetition rates. The design and functionality of the laser and target chambers are described along with initial data from commissioning experimental shots.