Characterization and optimization of infrared emission from light filaments observed in a fs-TW laser beam propagating in the atmosphere

Summary form only given. We present our results on the characterization and the optimization of the infrared component of the continuum efficiency is studied as a function of several laser parameters, such as pulse energy, duration, emission frequency chirp. For LIDAR application purposes, different beam transmission emitted from light filaments. Infrared configurations are studied. The fundamental beam can be sent in the atmosphere either collimated in a parallel beam or slightly focused. White light can be also re-collimated. Infrared intensities at remote distances are optimized.