Generating long sequences of high-intensity femtosecond pulses.

ABSTRACT

We present an approach to creating pulse sequences extending beyond 150 ps in duration, comprised of 100 µJ femtosecond pulses. A quarter of the pulse train is produced by a high-resolution pulse shaper, which allows full controllability over the timing of each pulse. Two nested Michelson interferometers follow to quadruple the pulse number and the sequence duration. To boost the pulse energy, the long train is sent through a multipass Tisapphire amplifier, followed by an external compressor. A periodic sequence of 84 pulses of 120 fs width and an average pulse energy of 107 µJ, separated by 2 ps, is demonstrated as a proof of principle.