Creating Multiple Longitudinal Foci With Parametric Spatio-Temporal Focusing

Multiple foci are created along the propagation direction of a laser beam using simultaneous spatial and temporal focusing of an ultrafast laser pulse in conjunction with parametric pulse shaping. The pulses are characterized with scanning SEA TADPOLE. The longitudinal and transverse positions of the foci are controlled using phase and amplitude shaping in a 4-f laser pulse shaping system. Measurements of the pulse duration as a function of spatial position of the foci are in agreement with the predictions of a Fourier optics model.