High-dynamic-range single-shot characterization for pulse contrast of high peak-power lasers

The 23^rd Academic Exchange Seminar Between Shanghai Jiao Tong University and Osaka University

Jingui Ma

(Key Laboratory for Laser Plasmas (MOE), School of Physics and Astronomy, Shanghai Jiao Tong University)

ABSTRACT

Temporal contrast between an intense pulse peak and its noise pedestal is one of the crucial parameters for strong-field physics experiments. How to measure and enhance the pulse contrast remains a challenge for high peak-power laser. This report focuses on single-shot characterization of pulse contrast,  including work principle, measurement capability, and applifications on the intense laser facilities in China. A main content is to report the first demonstration of single-shot measurements of 10¹³ ultrahigh-contrast pulses by manipulating cross correlation, which approaches the contrast limit between the highest pulse intensity by optical damage and the lowest temporal pedestal by single-photon detection. Such a high-dynamic range has satisified the pulse-contrast measurement demands of current petawatt-class lasers and even future exawatt-class lasers.