Single Shot Polarization Characterization of XUV FEL Pulses from Crossed Polarized Undulators

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Optics
• Laser Science

Background:

• Short-wavelength free-electron lasers (FELs) are crucial light sources.
• Controlling light polarization is essential for advanced applications.
• Previous characterizations of polarization in extreme ultraviolet (XUV) FELs are limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To experimentally characterize the polarization properties of an XUV high-gain FEL.
• To investigate the average degree of polarization and shot-to-shot stability.
• To analyze control and switching capabilities of the emitted light's polarization state.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an XUV high-gain FEL facility.
• Operated the FEL with crossed polarized undulators.
• Performed experimental characterization of polarization properties, including degree of polarization and stability.
• Analyzed polarization control and switching mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Successfully characterized the polarization properties of the XUV FEL.
• Demonstrated control over the polarization state of the emitted light.
• Observed good shot-to-shot stability of the polarization.
• Results align with theoretical predictions based on Gaussian beam propagation.

Conclusions:

• The experimental characterization validates the polarization control capabilities of XUV FELs.
• The findings support the use of crossed polarized undulators for polarization manipulation.
• This work provides a foundation for advanced applications utilizing tailored polarization states from FELs.