Ultrafast Dynamics in Helium Droplets

Abstract

Helium nanodroplets are peculiar systems, as condensed superfluid entities on the nanoscale, and as vessels for studies of molecules and molecular aggregates and their quantum properties at very low temperature. For both aspects, the dynamics upon the interaction with light is fundamental for understanding the properties of the systems. In this chapter we focus on time-resolved experiments in order to study ultrafast dynamics in neat as well as doped helium nanodroplets. Recent experimental approaches are reviewed, ranging from time-correlated photon detection to femtosecond pump-probe photoelectron and photoion spectroscopy, coherent multidimensional spectroscopy as well as applications of strong laser fields and novel, extreme ultraviolet light sources. The experiments examined in more detail investigate the dynamics of atomic and molecular dopants, including coherent wave packet dynamics and long-lived vibrational coherences of molecules attached to and immersed inside helium droplets. Furthermore, the dynamics of highly-excited helium droplets including interatomic Coulombic decay and nanoplasma states are discussed. Finally, an outlook concludes on the perspectives of time-resolved experiments with helium droplets, including recent options provided by new radiation sources of femto- or even attosecond laser pulses up to the soft X-ray range.