Experimental demonstration of 7-femtosecond electron timing fluctuation in laser wakefield acceleration

We report on an experimental investigation of the jitter of electrons from laser wakefield acceleration. The relative arrival timings of the generated electron bunches were detected via electro-optic spatial decoding on the coherent transition radiation emitted when the electrons pass through a 100 mu m thick stainless steel foil. The standard deviation of electron timing was measured to be 7 fs at a position outside the plasma. Preliminary analysis suggested that the electron bunches might have durations of a few tens of femtoseconds. This research demonstrated the potential of laser wakefield acceleration for femtosecond pump-probe studies.

Automated summary

This study investigates the jitter of electrons in laser wakefield acceleration. The relative arrival timings of the electron bunches were detected, and preliminary analysis suggests the duration of the electron bunches. The research demonstrates the potential of laser wakefield acceleration for femtosecond pump-probe studies.