Control and detection of complex fields in spatio-temporal optical systems

Methods for controlling and detecting complex optical fields with high spatial and temporal bandwidths are considered in this thesis. Space-time transformations can be used to encode and detect information in optical fields. Interferometric cross correlators detect temporal information by using spatial processes that can achieve higher resolution than direct temporal processes can achieve. An analysis of interferometric cross correlators is presented, and the signal-to-noise ratio that can be obtained in these systems is derived. This analysis includes the effects of positioning errors that cause uncertainties in the path delay between interfering beams. Experimental results that demonstrate the detection of complex space-time fields are presented. Holographic pulse-shaping techniques for recording information on ultra-fast space-time fields are analyzed. Spatial programming of reflection holograms in one dimension controls the temporal shape of a diffracted field. Space-time fields are produced by controlling holograms in three dimensions. Experimental holographic pulse-shaping systems are described, and the production of programmable ultrashort pulses with sub-picosecond temporal resolution and diffraction-limited spatial resolution is demonstrated. Applications of these techniques in microscopy, communications, and quantum dynamical control are also considered.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2011

Author dc:creator

• Hill, Kent Bradley

Contributors dc:contributor

• Brady, David J.

• Engineering, Electronics and Electrical
• Physics, Optics

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 1995 Hill, Kent Bradley

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

AAI9624363
(UMI)AAI9624363

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/19845