Self-induced transparency mode-locking in a Ti:sapphire laser with an intracavity rubidium cell

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates the first experimental realization of self-induced transparency mode-locking in a Ti:sapphire laser using an intracavity rubidium cell, showcasing a novel passive mode-locking mechanism based on SIT.

Contribution

It introduces the first experimental demonstration of SIT mode-locking in a laser system, previously only discussed theoretically.

Findings

Successful stable self-starting mode-locking via SIT in Ti:Sa laser

Observation of 2pi SIT pulses within the Rb cell

First experimental evidence supporting theoretical SIT mode-locking models

Abstract

In a Ti:Sa laser with an absorbing with Rb vapor cell stable self-starting passive mode-locking is demonstrated. We show that the mode-locking appears due to self-induced transparency (SIT) in the Rb cell, that is, the pulse in the Rb cell is a 2pi SIT pulse. For the best of our knowledge, in these experiments we present the first time demonstration of SIT mode-locking in laser systems, which was discussed only theoretical before.