Scientists Observe Ultrafast Formation of Star-Like Plasma in Copper Atoms

Sun, 03 May 2026 09:52:00 +0200

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf have achieved a breakthrough in observing the ultrafast dynamics of plasma formation using a combination of advanced laser systems. By targeting a thin copper wire with high-intensity laser pulses lasting just 25 to 30 femtoseconds, they captured how copper atoms lose and regain electrons in trillionths of a second. The process creates highly charged ions and superheated plasma, reaching temperatures of millions of degrees, similar to those found in extreme cosmic environments like neutron stars. Using a second X-ray laser pulse, scientists employed a pump-probe technique to record the temporal evolution of Cu²²⁺ ions, measuring ionization and recombination with unprecedented precision. The findings reveal that the formation of these ions peaks within 2.5 picoseconds and completely recombines within roughly ten picoseconds. Computer simulations showed that energetic electrons propagate like waves, stripping additional electrons from n