Ultrafast midinfrared laser system for enhanced self-amplified spontaneous emission applications

Abstract

Of particular interest to x-ray free-electron laser light source facilities is the enhanced self-amplified spontaneous emission (ESASE) technique. ESASE requires an ultrafast (20-50 fs), high peak power, high repetition rate, reliable laser system working in the midinfrared spectral range (μm). These requirements can be met by a novel ultrafast midinfrared laser system based on optical parametric chirped-pulse amplification (OPCPA). OPCPA is a technique ideally suited for production of ultrashort laser pulses at the center wavelength of 2μm. Some of the key features of OPCPA are the wavelength agility, broad spectral bandwidth, and negligible thermal load. The ESASE-compatible laser technology analysis and the preliminary OPCPA simulation results are presented. © 2011 American Physical Society.