We present measurements of the fast-electron-relaxation time in short-pulse (0.5 ps) laser-solid interactions for laser intensities of 10(17), 10(18), and 10(19) Wcm2, using a picosecond time-resolved x-ray spectrometer and a time-integrated electron spectrometer. We find that the laser coupling to hot electrons increases as the laser intensity becomes relativistic, and that the thermalization of fast electrons occurs over time scales on the order of 10 ps at all laser intensities. The experimental data are analyzed using a combination of models that include Kalpha generation, collisional coupling, and plasma expansion.

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Spectroscopic study of plasma produced through bombardment of the 1 × 3 mm2 area on the surface of a solid Mg target with Kr+ ions is carried out. Spectral lines of Mg I and Mg II ions were observed in the visible range (200–600 nm). The plasma parameters Ne = 1.4.1017 cm−3 and Te = 0.8 eV are calculated from electron impact broadening of the 4f–3d line of Mg II and from the ratio of intensities for the 4f–3d and 4s–3p lines of Mg II. The ionic composition of the plasma is determined. The detected X-ray emission is shown to be the characteristic emission of the target.