ΘΘIntegrating closedloop adaptive optics into a femtosecond laser chain

The Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ) has developed an Optical Parametric Chirped Pulse Amplification (OPCPA) femtosecond laser with an energy output of 100 mJ over a spectral band ranging from 700-1050 nm at a frequency of 10 Hz. The laser’s pulse duration is less than 10 fs, with a postcompression diameter of 2” and a final post-amplification diameter of 10 mm. The figure below shows the schematic of the laser chain. In order to maximize their laser’s performance, MPQ came to Imagine Optic for a complete adaptive-optics solution including a wavefront analyzer, a deformable mirror...

Choosing the right components In the case of MPQ, DEMAO simulations proved that a BIM 31 bimorph deformable mirror, made by Imagine Optic’s partner Cilas, would reduce an initial wavefront error of 0.2µm RMS to a post-corrected wavefront error of only 4 nm RMS. Following the results obtained, Imagine Optic proposed a complete adaptiveoptics loop comprised of a HASO3-32 wavefront sensor with CASAO software to drive the BIM 31. In addition to its capacity to correct for the laser’s aberrations, the BIM31’s polished silver reflective membrane, composed of a metallic and dielectric layer, has a damage...

In the case of the MPQ laser, we advised using the following optics, placed in the positions indicated in ©X0Y-1: No ajustments are required if the original configuration is adequate ©X0Y-2: Optional, depending on the laser's mechanics before this mirror The deformable mirror replaces the plane mirror placed before the vacuum-sealed compressor chamber. Pre-delivery verification In order to ensure that the solution being delivered meets the customer's specifications and that each individual component is functioning correctly, the optical system is mounted in Imagine Optic's laboratory for quality...

The images below demonstrate the that, in addition to improving the beam’s phase, intensity at the focal sport is equally improved. The engineer’s final on-site task it to ensure that the users of the adaptive-optics system are fully trained. He or she will go through each of the products used in the system, describe their features and functionalities, both individually and as part of the system, explain how technical support can be obtained, and answer any questions users may have. Conclusion As this application note demonstrates, successfully integrating adaptive optics into a high-power laser’s...