In the joint project MAXWELL, fundamentals of a new generation of MEMS-based adaptive optical components for ultrashort-pulsed lasers are investigated. Previous project stages were focused on fast, low-dispersion axicons based on piezo-electric and thermal actuation. Moreover, array specific effects were analyzed and proof-of-principle tests for selected application were performed. Advantages and disadvantages of different MEMS types were identified and compared to liquid crystal spatial light modulators (SLMs). Detection systems and analysis algorithms were developed. Building on these results, we propose an extension of the project for a further (final) period of two years. The planned continuation addresses five approaches with particularly high innovative potential: (1) combined systems consisting of high-resolution SLMs and fast MEMS (enabling for an efficient reduction of diffractive distortions), (2) adaptive nondiffractive Talbot self-imaging with optimized temporal pulse transfer, (3) Airy-Fresnel mirrors for the adaptive generation of accelerated ultrafast wavepackets, (4) OAM-encoded wavefront sensing of ultrashort wavepackets, and (5) transmissive free-form axicons and spiral phase elements. These tasks are expected to provide the significant scientific contributions to system architectures, components and applications of nest generation adaptive optics.
DFG Programme
Research Grants
