Ultrahigh-intensity KrF* laser system.

The operational characteristics of an ultrahigh-intensity subpicosecond large-aperture KrF* laser system are described. Measurements show the achievement of a focal spot diameter of less than 1.7 microm. Combined with measurements of the pulse width and pulse energy, this yields an average intensity of ~2 x 10(19) W/cm(2), a value corresponding to a peak electric field of ~24 (e/a(0)(2)). Light sources of this nature will find application in a broad range of studies of the nonlinear properties of matter in the strong-field regime.