Simultaneous observation of transient and final state dynamics in ultrafast strong-field excitation via time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy. Issue 10 (17th June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Braun, Hendrike; Bayer, Tim; Pengel, Dominik; Wollenhaupt, Matthias; Baumert, Thomas
• Is Part Of: Journal of modern optics. Volume 64:Issue 10/11(2017)
• Page Start: 1042
• Page End: 1053
• Publication Date: 2017-06-17
• Subjects: Femtosecond laser pulses -- ultrafast pulse shaping -- two-colour time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy -- strong-field coherent control -- rapid adiabatic passage -- selective population of dressed states; Optics -- Periodicals; 535
• DOI: 10.1080/09500340.2016.1278282
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0950-0340

Abstract

Abstract : Strong-field coherent control deals with the efficient excitation of a quantum system into a preselected final state. In order to understand the underlying control mechanisms, the transient dynamics of the laser-dressed states need to be considered in addition. In this paper, we present a route towards a complete picture of non-perturbative coherent control. To this end, we study near-resonant chirped excitation of potassium atoms as a model system for resonant strong-field control. Combining a two-colour pump–probe scheme with photoelectron spectroscopy, we simultaneously observe final state and transient excitation dynamics in the strongly driven atom. As demonstrated on the prototype scenario, the scheme enables a detailed understanding of the physical mechanisms governing the interaction. Our results highlight the power of two-colour time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy to shed light onto the different aspects of non-perturbative coherent control.