Secondary particle production from laser accelerated beams.

3-MeV protons and fusion neutrons are generated by focused radiation of the 3-TW Prague Asterix Laser System (PALS). 30-mA current of 3-MeV protons is detected behind the target in the forward direction when a hydrogenated silicon foil is used. The co-occurrence of bursts in the emission of ions and fusion neutrons from CD2 plasma is observed. The energy of produced deuteron bursts is high enough to drive deuterium fusion in CD2 catcher targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]