Development of LUCS, a Live, Ultra-Compact, Multispectral USPL Characterization System

Researchers developing Ultra-Short-Pulse-Lasers (USPLs) need real-time measurements of key parameters, on both single-shot and statistically assessed basis. We propose to design and build a fully integrated, intuitive and user friendly, Live USPL Characterization System, termed LUCS, using novel methods of data capture, data reduction, and distributed processing. Phase I work will evaluate, select, and develop compact, portable individual diagnostics to reliably measure spatial, spectral, temporal, and pulse energy parameters under field conditions. Advanced data reduction algorithms and system architectures will be defined and prototyped. We will also design and optimize a much-needed USPL measurement capability presently unavailable: a single shot phase characterization technique insensitive to both alignment and beam profile, simultaneously providing detailed temporal and phase profiles. A single graphical user interface (GUI) will display user selectable, processed, laser parameters including live tracking of statistical variations in beam figures-of-merit. Additionally, the GUI will allow full control of all diagnostic system components. The GUI will initially run on a laptop and will ultimately be available as a tablet or smartphone app. In Phase II, these prototype components will be fully realized, with diagnostic subsystems seamlessly integrated within hardware and software architectures to provide rapid data processing, enabling 10-Hz live display updates.