Studies of Optical Spatiotemporal Solitons in Quadratic Nonlinear Media

Cornell University, Ithaca NY

Investigators

Abstract

The overall objective of this project is to investigate, theoretically and experimentally, nonlinear propagation of ultrashort light pulses under conditions in which soliton formation occurs. Multi-dimensional solitons will be studied in materials with quadratic nonlinearities and in nonlinear media with periodic structures. These materials and structures will be chosen and developed to create environments that support solitons. A specific overall goal is to generate stable three-dimensional spatio-temporal solitons - so-called light bullets. The proposed work should have important implications for all-optical information processing as well as for scientific applications that involve the interaction of intense light fields with matter.