Mapping the spectral twist of few-cycle vortex pulses

Spatially resolved spectroscopy of vortex beams is able to test the orbital angular momentum state of optical systems, to decode specific information or to sensitively indicate light-matter interactions. Spectral maps of ultrashort vortex pulses were studied experimentally and theoretically. Local spectra were detected by scanning with a spatially highly resolving fiber-coupled spectrometer. Characteristic distributions of spectral statistical moments were analyzed for ultra-broadband near-infrared pulses with pulse durations in few-cycle range. It is shown that the spectral moments can be used for improving the contrast of vortex recognition and localization as well as for the data transfer via orbital angular momentum maps. In combination with time-resolved wavefront data, a more complete characterization of dynamic vortices is feasible. Gouy phase effect and radial oscillatory behavior of spectral maps of vortex pulses are demonstrated. Further implications of the spatio-spectral information content for singular optics and related applications will be addressed.

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