Plasma Formed by a Laser Pulse on a Tungsten Target

Results are presented of an experimental study of the plasma produced by the interaction of the focused light from a Q-switched laser with a tungsten target in a vacuum. The plasma radius, temperature, and radiative properties were measured during the period of the laser pulse. In addition, the target mass loss and plasma velocity and impulse were observed. Based on these experimental results, a model was developed which provides an energy and power balance for the expanding, radiating plasma.