Single transverse mode optical resonators

Abstract

We use quantum mechanical analogy to introduce a new class of optical resonators with finite deflection profile mirrors that support a finite number of discrete confined transverse modes and a continuum of unconfined transverse modes. We develop theory of such resonators, experimentally demonstrate micro-optical resonators intrinsically confining only a single transverse mode, and demonstrate high finesse step-mirrorprofile resonators. Such resonators have profound implications for optical resonator devices, such as lasers and interferometers.