Elongation of propagation distance of high-intensity femtosecond post-filamentation channel

The propagation of high-intensity laser pulses in air using a cascade of glass plates has been experimentally investigated. This method allows the maintenance of high intensity over extended distances due to Kerr lensing in a condensed medium. An analysis of the effect of the glass plate thickness on the characteristics of the post-filamentation channel has been carried out. Additionally, as a result of applying the plate cascade, the laser ignition of a high-voltage discharge using the post-filamentation channel has been successfully achieved at distances several times greater than in the case of free propagation. The results suggest that the glass plate cascade can significantly enhance the propagation range of high-intensity laser pulses, offering a promising approach for future applications in optical communications, remote sensing, and other fields requiring long-distance delivery of intense radiation.