Transverse cross-correlation scheme for pulse shape measurement in random nonlinear crystals

We present a novel single-shot cross-correlation scheme based on the measurement of the transverse second harmonic generation (TSHG) in crystals with randomly distributed nonlinear ferroelectric domains. We implement it to the measurement of the temporal shape of ultrashort laser pulses with unknown temporal profile. This technique combines the capability of typical intensity cross-correlation methods in pulse shape measurement with the advantages of the TSHG and ca be applied to a wide range of pulse durations and wavelength, without any requirement of angular alignment or temperature control.