Simultaneous spatio-temporal focusing with pulse front symmetrization

Simultaneous spatio-temporal focusing of ultrashort pulses is usually performed by single-channel stretcher-compressor geometries where pulse front tilt leads to spatial asymmetry. Here, the basic approach is extended by superimposing two reciprocal sub-beams in a dual-channel stretcher-compressor setup. Spatio-temporal properties of the symmetrized focal zones of few-cycle near-infrared pulses are studied by parametric numerical simulations with physical optics software. Spatial modulations of focal zones depending on focusing conditions appear. Relationships to specific ultrafast interference phenomena are addressed. (C) 2022 Optica Publishing Group