Improving the accuracy of a time lens

Abstract

A method for improving the accuracy of temporal imaging with an imperfect time lens is proposed. Signal distortion arising from complicated dispersion of the delay lines can be reduced considerably by appropriate choice of the phase-modulation function including the second harmonic of the basic modulation frequency and a specific phase shift of the modulation with respect to the main signal. The method is of particular interest for picosecond and femtosecond optical pulse generation.