Long-lasting laser-driven proton source

Laser-driven ion accelerators are a promising alternative to conventional accelerators currently in use. Following the laser-plasma interaction, the target is destroyed, making it necessary to replenish it, a task particularly challenging in the case of state-of-the-art laser systems operating at multi-hertz repetition rates. Here, we will introduce some of the different target systems currently being developed for continuous operation at such rates. In particular, a target system based on a tape-drive that is currently being developed at the Laser Laboratory for Acceleration and Applications (L2A2, USC) will be presented, which addresses the need of a target system capable of operating continuously for thousands of shots at several hertz. Preliminary measurements show tape stabilities below 10 µm of standard deviation.