Non-linear Synthesis of Complex Laser Waveforms at Remote Distances

TL;DR

This paper introduces a method to design laser pulses that counteract non-linear distortions during remote propagation, enabling precise control of molecules at distant targets for applications like detection.

Contribution

It presents a novel approach leveraging laser filamentation reversibility to synthesize complex laser waveforms remotely, enhancing control over distant molecular processes.

Findings

Successfully compensates for non-linear effects during propagation

Enables remote coherent control of molecules

Potential applications in standoff detection

Abstract

Strong deformation of ultrashort laser pulse shapes is unavoidable when delivering high intensities at remote distances due to non-linear effects taking place while propagating. Relying on the reversibility of laser filamentation, we propose to explicitly design laser pulse shapes so that propagation serves as a non-linear field synthesizer at a remote target location. Such an approach allows, for instance, coherent control of molecules at a remote distance, in the context of standoff detection of pathogens or explosives.