Simultaneous generation and real-time observation of soliton molecules and singlets in an anomalous dispersion mode-locked fiber laser

Abstract The simultaneous generation of soliton molecules and singlets in an anomalous dispersion mode-locked fiber laser was investigated using the dispersive Fourier transform technique. With careful adjustment of the polarization controller and pump power, the soliton molecule, coexistence of a soliton molecule and a single soliton pulse with different distances, and dual-pulse soliton were realized in the experiment. The modulation depth of the interference spectrum was affected by the soliton singlet, which was also verified by the simulation results. These findings facilitate an in-depth understanding of the behavior of soliton molecules.