Generation of high-order Hermite-Gaussian modes in end-pumped solid-state lasers for square vortex array laser beam...

Area of Science:

• Laser physics
• Quantum optics
• Photonics

Background:

• High-order Hermite-Gaussian modes (HGMs) are crucial for advanced laser applications.
• Existing methods for generating HGMs are often limited in scope or efficiency.
• Solid-state lasers offer a versatile platform for mode generation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the first systematic approach for exciting all high-order Hermite-Gaussian modes (HGMs) in end-pumped solid-state lasers.
• To numerically analyze and experimentally validate the excitation of HGMs.
• To demonstrate the generation of square vortex array laser beams using specific HGMs.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a metal-wire-inserted laser resonator.
• Employed the "off-axis pumping" technique for mode excitation.
• Performed numerical simulations and experimental verification of HGM generation.
• Used a Dove prism-embedded unbalanced Mach-Zehnder interferometer to create vortex arrays.

Main Results:

• Successfully excited a comprehensive range of high-order Hermite-Gaussian modes.
• Experimentally generated various HGM patterns in an end-pumped solid-state laser.
• Demonstrated the creation of square vortex array laser beams from specific HGMs (HGn,n+1 or HGn+1,n).

Conclusions:

• The developed method provides a systematic approach to HGM excitation in solid-state lasers.
• The generated square vortex array laser beams offer potential for applications such as multi-spot dark optical traps.
• This work advances the control and application of complex laser beam structures.