Laser-driven hadron sources are a highly active research field with promising applications in medicine, nuclear physics, and materials science. The interaction between high-intensity lasers and target materials enables the acceleration of protons and ions in the 1-100 MeV energy range. Additionally, fast neutrons can be produced through (p,n) reactions in suitable converter materials. Since different types of radiation (hadrons, photons, electrons) can be generated by modifying the target material, laser-driven sources are promising candidates for the development of multi-purpose radiation facilities. In this context, key areas for advancing reliable laser-driven ion sources include the development of targetry solutions for high repetition rates, accurate diagnostics of emitted radiation, and advanced modeling tools for laser-plasma interaction.

Advances in target manufacturing procedures are needed to improve beam shot-to-shot reproducibility and quality. Along with metallic and plastic foils, advanced target solutions (e.g., near-critical double-layer, grating, and nanotube targets) are under investigation to enhance laser absorption and accelerate more particles to higher energies. Moreover, advanced diagnostic techniques are essential for precisely characterizing the generated hadron beams. To operate at high repetition rates, these diagnostics must be active, absolutely calibrated, and capable of providing fast response. Furthermore, sophisticated modeling tools (e.g., Particle-In-Cell, hydrodynamic, and Monte Carlo simulations) are of paramount importance for understanding and predicting the laser-plasma interactions that drive hadron acceleration. Lastly, deepening the investigation of potential applications of laser-driven hadron sources (e.g., materials characterization, neutron imaging, hadron therapy, and radioisotope production) is crucial to fully exploit the capabilities of these sources: optimizing their performance for practical use and exploring their scalability for widespread adoption in industrial, scientific, and medical fields.

This Research Topic will explore the latest developments in laser-driven hadron sources, with an emphasis on these critical areas, aiming to address current challenges and highlight emerging applications in the field. In particular, contributions are expected to focus on one of the following areas:

- Production and testing of targets for laser-driven ion acceleration, with particular emphasis on solutions suitable for high-repetition rate operation.

- Development of new diagnostics for laser-driven hadron sources.

- Generation of secondary neutrons with laser-driven protons and their use in imaging applications.

- Theoretical and numerical investigation of laser-matter interaction with new target configurations.

- Numerical and experimental studies of applications of laser-driven hadron sources in the fields of materials characterization, nuclear medicine, and fundamental physics.

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Advances in Laser-Driven Hadron Sources: Targetry, Diagnostics, Modeling, and Applications