Dynamic enhancement of single-shot temporal contrast measurement by self-referenced spectral interferometry

We present a method for the dynamic enhancement of single-shot self-referenced spectral interferometry, achieving a temporal intensity contrast measurement capability exceeding 10¹⁰. Our approach employs optical Kerr lensing and white-light generation to optically limit the main pulse of a high-power laser, while leaving pre- and post-pulses as well as pedestal structures unaffected.