1000 times expansion/compression of optical pulses for chirped pulse amplification

Abstract

Diffraction gratings are used in both positive and negative group velocity dispersion configurations to expand and compress an optical pulse. An expansion/compression factor of 1000 times, from 85 fs to 85 ps and back is demonstrated. This method, in conjunction with the technique of chirped pulse amplification, will make possible the production of ultrahigh peak power pulses in the terawatt to petawatt range.