A study of high-power laser effects in dielectrics using multiframe picosecond holography

The recording of multiframe holographic interferograms used in the study of high power laser effects in dielectrics and plasmas is described. With a temporal resolution of 100 ps and a spatial resolution of several mu m the system is capable of the stepwise registration of high-speed phenomena such as shock waves. The separation of the sequential holograms is variable from approximately 50 ps up to several ns. In experiments using an ND:glass laser system ( approximately 3 J with 100 ps) not only the shock front is seen but also strong self-focusing effects.