We experimentally investigate light and its interactions at extreme conditions. “Extreme” refers both to the wavelengths and to the number of photons used in the experiments. Our research tools range from single photons to ultra-intense laser pulses, from ultra-broadband supercontinuum sources to radiation at the extreme ultraviolet (XUV) edge of the spectrum.
The ability to manipulate and characterize light at the single-photon level allows us to perform Quantum Optics experiments on the foundations of quantum mechanics, and to develop exciting new tools for the emerging quantum technologies.
At the same time, we use ultra-short and ultra-intense laser pulses to produce highly-nonlinear interactions with matter. This led us to fundamental studies on supercontinuum sources and frequency combs and to the production of coherent radiation in the XUV by high-order laser harmonics.
These studies played important roles in the 2005 and 2023 Nobel prizes in Physics to Theodor W. Hänsch and Anne L’Huillier
Besides the above main activities, there are several others that you may discover by navigating this website. Be aware that it is permanently under construction, so come back regularly for updates.
