Single-mode dispersive waves and soliton microcomb dynamics

TL;DR

This paper investigates the interaction between dissipative Kerr solitons and single-mode dispersive waves in optical resonators, revealing bistability and enhanced stability useful for precision applications.

Contribution

It demonstrates the limiting case where dispersive waves are concentrated into a single cavity mode and explores its effects on soliton dynamics and stability.

Findings

Single-mode dispersive wave induces bistability in soliton properties

Enhanced repetition-rate stability observed at specific operating points

Single-mode dispersive waves can produce quiet, stable soliton comb states

Abstract

Dissipative Kerr solitons are self-sustaining optical wavepackets in resonators. They use the Kerr nonlinearity to both compensate dispersion and to offset optical loss. Besides providing insights into nonlinear resonator physics, they can be applied in frequency metrology, precision clocks, and spectroscopy. Like other optical solitons, the dissipative Kerr soliton can radiate power in the form of a dispersive wave through a process that is the optical analogue of Cherenkov radiation. Dispersive waves typically consist of an ensemble of optical modes. A limiting case is demonstrated in which the dispersive wave is concentrated into a single cavity mode. In this limit, its interaction with the soliton is shown to induce bistable behavior in the spectral and temporal properties of the soliton. Also, an operating point of enhanced repetition-rate stability is predicted and observed. The single-mode dispersive wave can therefore provide quiet states of soliton comb operation useful in many applications.