Physical Principles of Creation of Ionization Channels in the Atmosphere Under cw and Pulsed Laser Irradiation

Abstract

Works are analyzed from which the possibility follows of ionization of the atmosphere upon exposure to laser radiation to develop laser antennas and systems of protection from lightning. Various effects leading to increased ionization of air in the pre-breakdown regime are considered, including photo- and thermal ionization, electroionization, surface ionization, chemical reactions, etc. together with the main ionization mechanism – laser breakdown of the atmosphere. The laser radiation parameters necessary for realization of the ionization channel in the atmosphere are estimated.