Single-pulse low-energy-driven transient inversion X-ray lasers

The paper deals with some aspects of a new pump method applied to collisional transient X-ray lasers working with ions of the Ni-like isoelectronic sequence. Specifically, Ni-like silver is the element of main interest. It is shown that a single profiled picosecond pulse with energy of about 1 J is able to excite efficiently the active medium. A small amount of the produced plasma facilitates its heating and following excitation. Application of other available pump laser systems and the resulting medium kinetics are analyzed. Pump pulse profiling and control over the pulse shape in a laser driver are highlighted on the background of the recent development in laser driver technology. Prospects and possible development trends are discussed as well.