Laser-field-free three-dimensional molecular orientation

Abstract

Laser-field-free three-dimensional orientation, corresponding to the complete control of spatial directions of asymmetric top molecules, is achieved with combined weak electrostatic and elliptically polarized laser fields with an 8-ns turnon and a 150-fs turnoff, which is shaped by a plasma shutter. Rotationally cold 3,4-dibromothiophene molecules are used as a sample, and their lower-lying rotational states are selected by a molecular deflector to increase the degrees of orientation. After the rapid turnoff of the pump pulse, higher degrees of orientation are maintained for 5--10 ps, which is long enough for various applications including electronic stereodynamics in molecules with femtosecond pulses.