Monolithic mode separator for the first-order spatial mode of light field

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Quantum Optics
• Interferometry

Background:

• Spatial mode separation is crucial for advanced optical experiments.
• Existing methods can be complex or lack stability.
• First-order Hermite Gaussian (HG) modes are fundamental in laser physics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and demonstrate a novel monolithic mode separator (MS).
• To achieve efficient separation of first-order orthogonal HG modes (HG01 and HG10).
• To create a stable and easily integrable device for optical systems.

Main Methods:

• Design of an asymmetric Mach-Zehnder interferometer.
• Integration of beam splitters and prisms into a monolithic structure.
• Temperature control for phase difference management within the interferometer.

Main Results:

• Achieved 97.5% separation efficiency for HG01 and HG10 modes.
• Obtained an overall transmission of 77%.
• Demonstrated intrinsic stability and ease of integration.

Conclusions:

• The monolithic mode separator offers high efficiency and stability.
• The device is suitable for various optical experiments requiring spatial mode separation.
• This technology advances the manipulation of light fields.