Plasma energy balance model for optical-laser-induced impulse in vacuo

A simple plasma energy-balance model, along with its derivation, is presented for calculating the impulse from targets in a vacuum exposed to single-pulse optical lasers. Results from the model agree well with experimental data and LASNEX radiation-hydrodynamic computer code calculations. The model assumes isothermal blowoff and thus takes advantage of the insensitivity of impulse to energy distribution within the ablated mass. The success of the model indicates that the impulse is insensitive to detailed interactions in the vicinity of the ablation surface. 10 references