Raman Amplification with a 1 x 10¹⁵ W/cm² Seed

We present first experimental results from the Raman amplification experimental platform at the University of Rochester’s Laboratory for Laser Energetics. This platform explores Raman amplification in a unique parameter space that includes a joule-class pump and an adjustable-energy seed with intensities up to 1 x 10¹⁵ W/cm², which is significantly more intense than prior experiments. Initial experiments have demonstrated single-pass Raman amplification with energy-gain factors as high as 10x and efficiencies as high as 6.6%. Scalings with gas-jet backing pressures, pump energy, and seed energy are presented. This material is based upon work supported by the Department of Energy National Nuclear Security Administration under Award Number DE-NA0003856 and the U.S. Department of Energy under Awards DE-SC00215057 and DE-SC0016253.