Simplified single-shot supercontinuum spectral interferometry

TL;DR

This paper introduces a simplified single-shot supercontinuum spectral interferometry method that uses a genetic algorithm and minimal shots, eliminating the need for probe pre-characterization, which is especially useful for low-repetition-rate lasers.

Contribution

The authors develop and experimentally validate a new simplified SSSI technique that requires only one or two shots and no probe pre-characterization, enhancing practicality and efficiency.

Findings

Genetic algorithm effectively retrieves transient phase modulations.

Error decreases with the number of shots used.

Single-shot SSSI demonstrated without probe pre-characterization.

Abstract

We have experimentally demonstrated a simplified method for performing single-shot supercontinuum spectral interferometry (SSSI) that does not require pre-characterization of the probe pulse. The method, originally proposed by D. T. Vu, D. Jang, and K. Y. Kim, uses a genetic algorithm (GA) and as few as two time-delayed pump-probe shots to retrieve the pump-induced phase shift on the probe [Opt. Express 26, 20572 (2018)]. We show that the GA is able to successfully retrieve the transient modulations on the probe, and that the error in the retrieved modulation decreases dramatically with the number of shots used. In addition, we propose and demonstrate a practical method that allows SSSI to be done with a single pump-probe shot (again, without the need for pre-characterization of the probe). This simplified method can prove to be immensely useful when performing SSSI with a low-repetition-rate laser source.