Optimization of low-order harmonic generation by exploitation of a resistive deformable mirror

The generation of harmonics from the interaction of an ultra-intense laser pulse and a gas jet is strongly influenced by the intensity and shape of the laser beam. In this work we present a sensor-less optimization procedure of the harmonics yield based on the use of an adaptive mirror. Be cause of the limited repetition rate of the laser source, we used a resistive actuator-deformable mirror which allows a rapid convergence to the optimal laser beam correction with out a wave-front measurement. Our approach demonstrated that this kind of deformable mirror was able to enhance the harmonic yield by a factor of two in about 40 acquisitions.