The spatially modulated electron distribution of plasma is the basis for obtaining programmable electron density patterns. It has an important influence on plasma technology applications. We propose an efficient scheme to realize controllable electron density patterns in underdense plasma based on the array laser–plasma interaction. Theoretical evidence for the realization of programmable electron density patterns and the corresponding electrostatic field is provided analytically, which is confirmed by particle-in-cell simulations. Results show that the spatial distribution of electron density in the propagation and transverse directions of the laser can be highly modulated to obtain rich programmable electron density patterns by adjusting the array pattern code and pulse width of the array laser beam.

等离子体的空间调制电子分布是获得可编程电子密度模式的基础。它对等离子技术的应用有着重要的影响。我们提出了一种基于阵列激光-等离子体相互作用在低密度等离子体中实现可控电子密度模式的有效方案。分析提供了实现可编程电子密度模式和相应静电场的理论证据，这已通过细胞内粒子模拟得到证实。结果表明，通过调整阵列激光束的阵列图案代码和脉冲宽度，可以高度调制电子密度在激光传播方向和横向方向的空间分布，以获得丰富的可编程电子密度图案。