Free-space electro-optic sampling of terahertz beams

Abstract

Free-space electro-optic sampling is an alternative method for the characterization of freely propagating terahertz beams with subpicosecond temporal resolution. In contrast to resonant photoconductive dipole antennas, free-space electro-optic sampling via the linear electro-optic effect (Pockels effect) offers a flat frequency response over an ultrawide bandwidth and the potential for a simple cross-correlation signal of the terahertz and optical pulses.