Noninvasive bunch length measurements exploiting Cherenkov diffraction radiation

We present the observation and the detailed investigation of coherent Cherenkov diffraction radiation (CChDR) in terms of spectral-angular characteristics. Electromagnetic simulations have been performed to optimize the design of a prismatic dielectric radiator and the performance of a detection system with the aim of providing longitudinal beam diagnostics. Successful experimental validations have been organized on the CLEAR and the CLARA facilities based at CERN and Daresbury laboratory respectively. With ps to sub-ps long electron bunches, the emitted radiation spectra extend up to the THz frequency range. Bunch length measurements based on CChDR have been compared to longitudinal bunch profiles obtained using a radio frequency deflecting cavity or coherent transition radiation (CTR). The retrieval of the temporal profile of both Gaussian and non-Gaussian bunches has also been demonstrated. The proposed detection scheme paves the way to a new kind of beam instrumentation, simple and compact for monitoring short bunches of charged particles, particularly well-adapted to novel accelerator technologies, such as dielectric and plasma accelerators. Finally, CChDR could be used for generating intense THz radiation pulses at the MW level in existing radiation facilities, providing broader opportunities for the user community.