A Decade of Sub-100-fs Thin-Disk Laser Oscillators

Abstract

Thin-disk lasers (TDLs) are best known for their high-power continuous-wave industrial applications. Nonetheless, the thin-disk geometry is also highly attractive for ultrafast laser oscillators. The short propagation distance and large beam diameter inside the gain crystal allows for very low induced nonlinearity, low dispersion, and extreme peak powers inside the laser cavity. The path toward TDL oscillators directly delivering high average power at ultrafast pulse duration required for many scientific applications has, however, been tangled and is still ongoing. A decade ago, the first sub-100-fs laser oscillator is demonstrated, initiating the pursuit of even shorter pulses. Since then, many gain materials have been investigated in the thin-disk geometry as well as various mode-locking mechanisms for their suitability for efficient short-pulse operation. In this review, the fast-evolving development trends of TDL oscillators, as well as their scientific applications and prospects will be discussed.