Ultrafast Light Sources

Dschungel of optical components

In our group, we advance state-of-the-art ultrafast laser systems to achieve purpose-tailord and waveform-controlled laser pulses spanning the visible to mid-infrared spectral range. These efforts center on pushing the limits of commercially available laser technology to address the challenges of ultrafast science.

Laser Oscillators and Optical Parametric Amplifiers (OPAs). We focus on developing and optimizing laser oscillators and optical parametric amplifiers (OPAs) to generate few-cycle laser pulses with high peak intensities and tunable wavelengths. OPAs play a pivotal role in extending the spectral range of ultrafast pulses to mid-IR, enabling precise control over wavelength, bandwidth, and temporal properties. 

Spectral Broadening and Pulse Compression. To achieve few-cycle laser pulses, we employ spectral broadening techniques using photonic crystal fibers, gas-filled hollow-core fibers, and Herriott cells. These methods increase the bandwidth of laser pulses, laying the foundation for tailored ultrashort pulses. 

Lightwave Synthesis. A significant focus of our research is lightwave synthesis, where we combine laser pulses of different wavelengths with precise phase control to create synthesized waveforms. These waveforms enable unparalleled control over the electric field of light on attosecond timescales, opening new possibilities for coherent light-matter interaction and advancing attosecond science.

Applications and Goals. The tools we develop aim to push the boundaries of ultrafast light-matter interactions with applications that span: