Optical Frequency Measurement Using Frequency Multiplication and Frequency Combs

Abstract

Over the last few years, there has been a remarkable convergence amongthe fields of ultrafast optics, optical frequency metrology, andprecision laser spectroscopy. This convergence has enabled unprecedentedadvances in control of the electric field of the pulses producedby femtosecond mode-locked lasers. The resulting spectrum consistsof a comb of sharp spectral lines with well-defined frequencies.These new techniques and capabilities are generally known as "femtosecondcomb technology." They have had dramatic impact on the diverse fieldsof precision measurement and extreme nonlinear optical physics. Thisbook provides an introductory description of mode-locked lasers,the connection between time and frequency descriptions of their outputand the physical origins of the electric field dynamics, togetherwith an overview of applications of femtosecond comb technology.Individual chapters go into more detail on mode-locked laser development,spectral broadening in microstructure fiber, optical parametric amplification,optical frequency metrology, optical atomic clocks, ultrasensitivesensors, carrier-envelope phase dynamics, high field ionization ofatoms and generation of attosecond high-harmonic radiation. To providereaders with the most recent, direct, and comprehensive information,the chapters are written by the international researchers who haveled the development of this field. This book provides an introductionto those new to the field and is at the same time a resource forexperts.