Ultra-short Pulses & Mode-locking

This lecture covers the basics of pulsed laser sources, Kerr Lens Mode Locking, and Carrier Envelope Frequency. It explains the characterization of pulses using ion and autocorrelation techniques, Wiener Khinchine theorem, and frequency metrology. The lecture delves into the spectral power density of ultra-fast lasers, minimum pulse durations of various laser mediums, chirped pulses, and the concept of mode-locking in longitudinal cavity modes. It also discusses the principles of passive Kerr Lens Mode Locking and the significance of measuring the carrier envelope frequency in optical atomic clocks.