Oliver D. Mücke

Stimulated X-Ray Raman Scattering with Free-Electron Laser Sources

Stimulated electronic x-ray Raman scattering is the building block for several proposed x-ray pump probe techniques, that would allow the study of electron dynamics at unprecedented timescales. We present high spectral resolution data on stimulated electronic x-ray Raman scattering in a gas sample of neon using a self-amplified spontaneous emission x-ray free-electron laser. Despite the limited spectral coherence and broad bandwidth of these sources, high-resolution spectra can be obtained by statistical methods, opening the path to coherent stimulated x-ray Raman spectroscopy. An extension of these ideas to molecules and the results of a recent experiment in CO are discussed.

High-Energy Carrier-Envelope Phase-Stable Optical Waveforms Compressible to <1 fs Using Induced-Phase Modulation in Argon-Filled Hollow-Core Fiber

We demonstrate phase-stable, ~0.4-mJ optical waveforms based on induced-phase modulation for generating sub-fs optical pulses. Using custom-designed double-chirped mirrors and spatial light modulator, such optical waveforms will become a versatile tool for strong-field attoscience.

Cascaded difference-frequency generation using tailored optical spectra for highly efficient terahertz sources

We describe cascaded difference-frequency generation (DFG) between multiple laser-lines generating terahertz pulses at >10% energy-conversion efficiency. DFG initiated by a laser-line and weak laser-seed rapidly cascades to self-generate multiple laser-lines and produce exponential terahertz growth.

Above-Millijoule Optical Waveforms Compressible to Sub-fs Using Induced-Phase Modulation in a Neon-Filled Hollow-Core Fiber

We demonstrate 1.7-mJ optical waveforms based on induced-phase modulation for generating sub-femtosecond optical pulses. Using custom-designed double-chirped mirrors and a spatial light modulator, such optical waveforms will become a versatile tool for strong-field attoscience.

Terahertz Accelerator Technology

The potential of a linear THz accelerator technology is discussed. Theoretical and first experimental results on THz-driven guns and accelerators are presented with a focus on laser based THz generation to drive these devices.

Cascaded optical parametric amplifier in PPLN for efficient narrowband terahertz generation

We demonstrate experimentally the onset of cascaded optical parametric amplification (COPA) in periodically-poled lithium niobate. This technique permits narrowband terahertz wave generation beyond the Manley-Rowe limit.

Two-octave-wide dispersive mirrors based on dual-adiabatic-matching structures

An unprecedented chirped mirror system allowing smooth dispersion control over 2-octave bandwidth is demonstrated based on dual-adiabatic-matching (DAM) structures. Advanced designs for ultra-broadband dispersive optics are provided and discussed.

Velocity Map Imaging of Electrons Strong-Field Photoemitted from Si-Nanotip Arrays

We observe the electron velocity/momentum distributions due to three-photon ionization and strong-field photoemission from Si-nanotip arrays using velocity map imaging.