Z-scan confocal method for indirect focus location

We present a new technique that we have defined as the z-scan confocal method to determine the location and size of the focal spot in a tightly focused ultrashort laser pulse. The method permits accurate positioning of a target in the focal spot with a fast response. The technique is designed to help to automatize the location of an over-dense target in focus in a laser plasma experiment and suitable to be implemented in a closed loop configuration setup. The method allows for a fast localization of the focal position and the relative motion of the target with respect to it. As an example of the potential of the technique we have measured the defocusing of a fast rotating disc in several radii to reconstruct the motion of the disc at focus. (C) 2017 Author(s).