Non-uniform irradiation with inverse bremsstrahlung absorption in spherical laser targets

Abstract

Inverse bremsstrahlung absorption in the spherical, quasi-steady corona of a weakly nonuniform laser-irradiated target is considered. Here we have assumed that laser irradiation is almost spherical, justifying a linear analysis in terms of spherical harmonics. Our analysis is applicable for low intensities and short wavelength pulses. Complete results for ablation pressure, mass flow rate, and critical surface location are given in terms of Legendre index.