X-ray image-converter streak diagnostics of laser plasmas

A review is given of the developments in dynamic tests on x-ray streak (image-converter) cameras designed for diagnostics of soft x-ray radiation emitted by laser plasmas. A description is given of the procedures used in the application of these cameras in experimental studies of the interaction of high-power laser radiation with matter. Methods for recording x-ray radiation from laser plasmas using plastic scintillators are presented. Special attention is given to the characteristics of x-ray photocathodes such as the energy distribution of photoelectrons, and the thickness and spectral dependences of the quantum efficiency. An account is given of diagnostic experiments on plasmas formed by subpicosecond laser pulses.