Real-time ultrashort pulse shaping diagnostics using frequency-resolved optical gating

Summary form only given. The need for precise control of phase and intensity profiles of ultrashort laser pulses is becoming increasingly apparent. Applications include coherent control and control of pulse propagation in optical fibers. Additional applications will arise as the technology for control of ultrashort optical pulses becomes more common and easier to implement. Typical coherent control and propagation experiments optimize some parameter such as second harmonic intensity or product yield using a genetic algorithm which can take several hours. Unfortunately, if laser alignment changes over time, additional time consuming optimizations may be required unless the optimal ultrafast laser pulse shape can be set directly, which requires real-time closed loop control over the pulse shape. In a step toward the goal of real-time closed loop control of ultrashort laser pulse shapes, we combine pulse shape control with real time pulse measurement.