Non-paraxial theory of self-defocusing/focusing of a laser pulse in a multiple-ionizing gas

The self-focusing of a laser pulse through a tunnel ionizing gas (helium) has been studied in both non-relativistic and relativistic regimes, relaxing the near-axis approximation. In the non-relativistic regime, the laser pulse produces multiple ionization of the gas and faces strong defocusing due to the steep radial density gradient caused by the same. The uneven defocusing of paraxial and marginal rays leads to a beam acquiring a ring shaped intensity distribution. In the relativistic regime, the laser pulse produces fully ionized plasma within a few wave periods, subsequently the relativistic mass effect and the ponderomotive force induced electron cavitation cause periodic self-focusing. PACS 52.38.Hb; 42.65.Jx