110 MW thin-disk oscillator

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Laser Technology
• Quantum Optics

Background:

• Developing high-power femtosecond lasers is crucial for advanced scientific applications.
• Thin-disk oscillators offer a scalable platform for high-energy laser generation.
• Extreme ultraviolet (XUV) frequency combs require robust and high-performance laser drivers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a compact Kerr-lens mode-locked thin-disk oscillator with record-breaking peak power.
• To demonstrate a stable femtosecond laser source combining high average and peak power.
• To establish a key component for the advancement of transportable XUV frequency comb sources.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Kerr-lens mode-locking technique in a thin-disk laser architecture.
• Employed a compact oscillator design for enhanced stability and efficiency.
• Characterized the laser output for average power, peak power, and pulse duration.

Main Results:

• Achieved a reproducible output peak power of 110 MW, the highest reported for any oscillator.
• Delivered a high average output power of 202 W.
• Demonstrated a stable femtosecond pulse output, suitable for demanding applications.

Conclusions:

• The developed compact thin-disk oscillator represents a significant milestone in laser technology.
• This high-performance laser source is an ideal driver for developing transportable XUV frequency comb systems.
• The unique combination of high average and peak power enables new possibilities in precision measurement and spectroscopy.