Petawatt laser breakthrough could revolutionize science and tech

Scientists from the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory made a breakthrough and created a laser with a power of one quadrillion watts. Its unimaginable power is compared to conditions found in the cores of planets. The laser itself can split atoms and produce gamma rays.

Scientists from the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, led by Claudio Emma, have made a breakthrough in laser technology. A project was developed that elevated laser technology to a new level, and its power is hard to imagine. The researchers managed to achieve the highest electron acceleration results in history, enabling the generation of a laser beam with the highest current and peak power.

Although it operates for just one quadrillionth of a second, its power is so vast that it is compared to multiplied atomic force. According to the portal Popular Mechanics, electrons in the accelerator are accelerated using radio waves, reaching speeds close to the speed of light. The entire process takes place in a vacuum chamber, and the direction of electron movement is controlled by a magnetic field.

Scientists emphasize that this is only the beginning of their discoveries, and scientific successes motivate them for further research. Researchers believe that such advancements may enable the study of the nature of empty space and the generation of light. In the future, such powerful electron beams may find applications in various fields of science. Their potential includes not only studies of the structure of matter but also possible applications in technology and energy. The team from the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory continues to work on developing this technology, opening new prospects for science.