Time-dependent multielectron dynamics of Ar in intense short laser pulses

We have developed an ab initio R-matrix-based approach for the time-dependent description of the multielectron response of complex atoms irradiated by intense ultrashort laser pulses. Ionization rates for Ar irradiated by intense 390 nm laser light are in excellent agreement with the most accurate rates available. The present approach shows how complex atomic structure affects the atomic response in the time domain. The approach extends the range of intensities, for which accurate ionization rates can be obtained for complex multielectron atoms, and the amount of atomic structure that can be included at high intensities, compared to the R-matrix Floquet approach. Because of these advantages, the approach is highly promising for the ab initio investigation of the multielectron response to intense ultrashort light pulses.