Laser-Driven Sources of High Energy Particles and Radiation

Ultraintense lasers are now established as powerful drivers for high energy particle, plasma based accelerators and unique compact radiation sources. Further developments will require the coalescence of a wide range of fields, from optics and lasers, to plasmas and particle beams, to deliver the first accelerator with reliable and reproducible operation and with extraordinary specifications. This volume collects papers from key experts, covering the most crucial topics and offering young researchers the reference source required to identify fundamental physical aspects and the most advanced technology. In this chapter I will highlight some of the most exciting developments of the field and their perspective, also in view of multi-disciplinary applications.