title: Single-shot visualization of evolving, light-speed structures by multiobject-plane phase-contrast imaging.
abstract: We demonstrate a single-shot method of visualizing the evolution of light-speed, laser-generated structures as they propagate over hundreds of Rayleigh lengths (typically ≥10 cm) through a tenuous medium. An ultrashort probe pulse crosses the object's path at a small angle (θ<5°) and a specific time delay. Copies of the phase-modulated probe are then relay-imaged to separate detectors from selected object planes along the propagation path. A phase-contrast technique based on Kerr effect and nonlinear absorption converts phase to intensity modulation, improving sensitivity in tenuous media. A continuous record of the probe phase modulation along the propagation path is reconstructed.
authors.forename: Zhengyan
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Li
authors.forename: Chih-Hao
authors.initials: CH
authors.lastname: Pai
authors.forename: Yen-Yu
authors.initials: YY
authors.lastname: Chang
authors.forename: Rafal
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Zgadzaj
authors.forename: Xiaoming
authors.initials: X
authors.lastname: Wang
authors.forename: M C
authors.initials: MC
authors.lastname: Downer