On the angular distribution of fast electrons generated in intense laser interaction with solid targets

The angular distribution of fast electrons generated during the interaction of an ultrashort intense laser pulse incident obliquely onto solid targets is studied both analytically and numerically. A formula on the emission angles of electrons as a function of the electron kinetic energy, the incidence angle of the laser pulse, and induced quasistatic fields is found by two different methods. The quasistatic fields include electric and magnetic ones, which are generated near the target surface by the fast electrons. The two fields have the opposite contribution to the electron trajectories. In certain conditions, electrons can move near the target surface.