Research and development on laser-driven compact particle source for future medical applications

Recently, many research groups are performing experimental, as well as theoretical, studies on ultrashort and ultrahigh-intensity laser-driven particle sources. In this report, the author describes mainly original results including how to make a desired laser plasma for particle acceleration, the acceleration mechanisms, and the properties of the accelerated particles. The author also briefly describes an actual collaboration with medical professionals including a joint experiment using the particle beam for real therapy. (author)