Framing shadowgraphs have been used to investigate the interaction of a 1.5 GW CO₂ laser with polythene pellets in vacuo. A Spectra-Physics argon-ion laser was used as source and a Hadland Imacon camera for recording, at framing rates of 10⁵-10⁷ Hz. Part of the pellet ionized, and the remainder fragmented. Theoretical analysis suggests that fragmentation can be avoided if the laser pulse and pellet geometry are mutually optimized; optimal parameters are estimated.