Nonlinear collective effects in photon–photon and photon–plasma interactions are explored in this paper. The study focuses on quantum electrodynamics (QED) effects in high-energy laboratory and astrophysical systems, particularly photon–photon scattering and its implications for plasma dynamics and vacuum behavior. Current laser facilities are approaching energy scales where laboratory astrophysics becomes feasible, enabling the study of extreme conditions similar to those in space. Superconducting cavities and quantum non-demolition measurements offer new ways to explore these phenomena. The paper discusses the Heisenberg–Euler Lagrangian, which describes nonlinear vacuum effects, and derives equations for electromagnetic pulse propagation in radiation plasmas. It also covers the stability of these equations and the potential for pulse collapse and trapping in relativistic electron holes. QED effects, such as the generation of novel electromagnetic modes, are discussed in the context of pair plasmas. Applications to laser-plasma systems and astrophysical environments are highlighted, including the potential for detecting photon–photon scattering in cavity experiments. The paper also addresses the importance of nonlinear effects in high-energy density systems, such as those found in supernovae and magnetars, and the role of quantum vacuum effects in these environments. The study emphasizes the need for further research into nonlinear QED effects and their potential applications in both laboratory and astrophysical settings.Nonlinear collective effects in photon–photon and photon–plasma interactions are explored in this paper. The study focuses on quantum electrodynamics (QED) effects in high-energy laboratory and astrophysical systems, particularly photon–photon scattering and its implications for plasma dynamics and vacuum behavior. Current laser facilities are approaching energy scales where laboratory astrophysics becomes feasible, enabling the study of extreme conditions similar to those in space. Superconducting cavities and quantum non-demolition measurements offer new ways to explore these phenomena. The paper discusses the Heisenberg–Euler Lagrangian, which describes nonlinear vacuum effects, and derives equations for electromagnetic pulse propagation in radiation plasmas. It also covers the stability of these equations and the potential for pulse collapse and trapping in relativistic electron holes. QED effects, such as the generation of novel electromagnetic modes, are discussed in the context of pair plasmas. Applications to laser-plasma systems and astrophysical environments are highlighted, including the potential for detecting photon–photon scattering in cavity experiments. The paper also addresses the importance of nonlinear effects in high-energy density systems, such as those found in supernovae and magnetars, and the role of quantum vacuum effects in these environments. The study emphasizes the need for further research into nonlinear QED effects and their potential applications in both laboratory and astrophysical settings.