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Mode-locking of a terahertz laser by direct phase synchronization
J Maysonnave1, K Maussang, J R Freeman
1Laboratoire Pierre Aigrain, Ecole Normale Supérieure, CNRS (UMR 8551), Université P. et M. Curie, Université D. Diderot, 75231 Paris Cedex 05, France.
Optics Express
|October 6, 2012
Summary
Researchers demonstrate a new method for mode-locking multimode lasers by controlling mode phases. This technique generates ultrashort terahertz laser pulses, offering a novel approach to pulsed laser generation.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Quantum Optics
- Laser Technology
Background:
- Traditional ultrashort laser pulse generation relies on modulating laser cavity gain or losses.
- Achieving stable mode-locking in multimode lasers presents significant challenges.
- Quantum cascade lasers offer unique properties for terahertz wave generation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate a novel scheme for achieving mode-locking in a multimode laser.
- To explore an alternative method to conventional gain/loss modulation for pulsed emission.
- To characterize the generated ultrashort laser pulses in the time domain.
Main Methods:
- Directly manipulating the phases of laser modes to achieve constructive interference.
- Utilizing multimode injection seeding with an external terahertz pulse.
- Employing a terahertz quantum cascade laser as the gain medium.
Main Results:
- Successful phase mode-locking of a terahertz quantum cascade laser.
- Generation of ultrashort terahertz laser pulses with a duration of 9 picoseconds.
- Unambiguous characterization of the generated pulses in the time domain.
Conclusions:
- The demonstrated scheme provides a novel and effective method for achieving mode-locking in multimode lasers.
- Directly controlling mode phases offers an alternative to traditional modulation techniques.
- This approach enables the generation of well-defined ultrashort terahertz pulses.
