A high-power wavelength-tunable continuous wave laser for single-shot ultrafast optical imaging in the near-infrared spectrum

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Single-shot ultrafast optical imaging of non-repeatable, transient events in real time (i.e., the actual duration of the event's occurrence) is indispensable for understanding many underlying physical, chemical, and biological principles. The success of this research heavily demands that the system's light source has a high power to scrutinize the spatial heterogeneity of dynamic scenes, a tunable wavelength to generate the phenomena under investigation with the highest pumping efficiency, and a proper pulse width to efficiently deliver photons without damaging the sample.******In this regard, we request to purchase a high-power, wavelength-tunable, continuous wave laser through this RTI grant, to develop two ultrafast near-infrared optical imaging systems, namely a compressed optical-sweeping ultrafast microscope and a THz-bandwidth, ultralong-recording-window optical oscilloscope. These systems will enable real-time imaging of non-repeatable transient phenomena at picosecond to microsecond temporal resolutions. These novel experimental platforms will be applied to three applications: (1) label-free imaging of neural activities, (2) accurate spatiotemporal temperature sensing using rare earth-doped nanoparticles in deep biological tissue, and (3) ultrafast detection of optical waveforms from telecommunication channels. The specifications of the requested laser are perfectly suited for these proposed research tasks.******Besides the compelling scientific merits manifested in the three targeted areas, the proposed research program has far-reaching potential applications. With highly complementary technical specifications to existing equipment at the Advanced Laser Light Source (a CFI-funded national infrastructure), these systems will significantly enhance the overall research ability of INRS–ÉMT. Moreover, the proposed research will generate precious strategic advantages over other competing groups worldwide and place Canada in a position of leadership in a highly competitive field. Besides immediate impacts in neuroscience, materials science, and telecommunication, the proposed program holds great promise, in the long term, for future studies of THz imaging, transient absorption spectroscopy, electrochemical reaction of battery interface, and whole-body neural pattern interrogation.******The excellent track records and complementary expertise of the applicants and major collaborators will ensure the fast progress and overall success of the proposed program as well as make the most efficient and diligent use of the requested equipment. Moreover, the proposed program has attracted ten collaborators in diverse fields at national and international premier institutes. Beyond its scientific merits, the proposed research activities will provide the best possible training environment to attract and retain highly qualified personnel for obtaining highly marketable skills for their future careers.