Laser-based electron acceleration to GeV in free space

In this paper, the free-electron scattering by continuous or pulsed laser beams has been investigated in details. It is found that when Q equalsV eE >= 100 an electron can be captured and violently accelerated to GeV energy under proper conditions. From the quantum viewpoint, we can explain this effect on the basis of non-linear and stimulated Comptom scattering. This phenomenon provided us with a new far-field laser acceleration mechanism, whose practical feasibility and application possibility are also discussed.