Spatio-temporal controlled filamentation using higher order Bessel-Gaussian beams integrated in time

Area of Science:

• Nonlinear optics
• Laser physics
• Materials science

Background:

• Femtosecond light filamentation is a nonlinear optical phenomenon.
• Controlling filamentation dynamics is crucial for various applications.
• Existing methods lack dynamic, high-speed control over filament location and structure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate a new method for systematic, dynamic, high-speed, spatio-temporal control of femtosecond light filamentation.
• To achieve on-demand generation of structured filamentation patterns.
• To explore potential applications enabled by this control.

Main Methods:

• Utilized coherent conjugate asymmetric Bessel-Gaussian beams.
• Controlled the far-field intensity distribution of femtosecond pulses.
• Employed acousto-optic deflectors for high-speed switching (MHz range).

Main Results:

• Achieved systematic, dynamic, high-speed spatio-temporal control of filamentation in BK7 glass.
• Demonstrated the generation of structured filamentation patterns on demand.
• Showcased the ability to create unique intensity distributions for each pulse.

Conclusions:

• The proposed method offers precise control over femtosecond light filamentation.
• This technique enables the generation of large filament arrays.
• Potential applications include opto-mechanical manipulation and engineered plasma antennas.