Two-Dimensional Distribution of Self-Generated Magnetic Fields near the Laser-Plasma Resonant- Interaction Region

In a beautiful recent experiment Sakagami et al. have recorded, on magnetic tape, the spatial field distribution produced in laser-plasma interaction. The standard infinite-plane theory of magnetic field produced by resonance absorption is unable to explain their experimental observations. This Letter proposes that finite geometry effects in resonance absorption produce a new magnetic field contribution which is responsible for their results.