Laser absorption and fast electron transport in deformed targets

The effect of surface deformations on laser absorption and transport in ove rdense plasma targets is investigated with 2D Vlasov simulations. Fractiona l absorption increases strongly with the deformation depth and scales weakl y with density or intensity. Fast electrons generated in the skin layer hav e high tangential velocity directed toward the deformation center. In the c ase of a single, smooth deformation, they may be collimated by magnetic fie lds into a single jet which penetrates deeply into the plasma. Small-scale surface corrugations are able to destroy the collimation of a single jet le ading to multiple jets or diffuse electron sprays.