Single-shot ultrafast interferometric imaging

We have developed a new interferometric method capable of capturing 2-dimensional, time-varying phase and amplitude profiles in a single shot. Most single-shot interferometry provides one-dimensional spatial information as demonstrated in detecting laser-produced transients, phase transition, and plasma generation. By contrast, our new method can provide 2-dimensional spatial information at multiple time delays in a single shot. In this scheme, we analyze the limits of spatial and temporal resolution and have tested the working principle with a computer simulation. This new diagnostic holds a great potential in study ultrafast phenomena occurring on sub-picosecond time scales.