Integrated 2.0 Micron Modelocked Laser for E-SASE Advanced Accelerator Applications

We propose a novel new architecture for a mode-locked laser at 2.0 microns that is designed to achieve sub-100 fs pulse widths for application to free-electron laser (FEL)-based light sources that are using the enhanced self-amplified spontaneous emission (ESASE). The laser design uses hybrid-integration to directly incorporate carrier phase envelope (CEP) stabilization in the femtosecond modelocked laser oscillator cavity. This design eliminates all mechanical adjustments or moving parts that are currently used in CEP systems and require periodic alignment using mechanical motion. Most of the large free-space optical components currently used in femtosecond laser systems are replaced with waveguide chips that implement all the optical functions required for long term stability in a small compact footprint. One of key design features of our technology is the ability to lock the laser modelocking repetition rate to an external clock frequency. This capability is key for all of the anticipated DOE applications. In the Phase I program we successfully completed a proof-of-concept demonstration of the proposed modelocked laser system and the hybrid-integration technology platform. All of the Phase I objectives have been accomplished. The proposed Phase II project will develop a prototype of a fs modelocked laser oscillator and a chirped pulse amplified (CPA) system to achieve a stable modelocked pulses with 0.1-1 microJoule energy per pulse. This system can then be inserted into high-energy CPA regenerative amplifier to obtain pulse energies in the mJ range with & lt;100 fs pulse widths. The 2 micron laser technology platform has many commercial applications including: Eye-safe LIDAR (Light Detection And Ranging), Bio-medical applications including ophthalmic corneal resurfacing and non-invasive glucose monitoring, Environmental sensing (green-house gases),Telecommunications applications. Congressional abstract: An advanced short-pulse laser system is need for free-electron laser development at DOE accelerator facilities such as the Stanford Linear Accelerator. The purpose of this project is to develop a short pulse laser system that has a pulse width that is less than 10-13 seconds and a pulse energy in the microjoule range.