A dual color, frequency and pulse duration agile laser system for particle spectroscopy and manipulation via chirped optical lattices

We report on the development and performance characteristics of a novel laser system, capable of delivering two pulses of arbitrary temporal shape and duration (range 5-1000 ns) in both the fundamental and frequency doubled frequencies of Nd. More importantly, this laser system is capable of achieving linear relative frequency excursions of up to 10 Ghz between the two laser arms, during the duration of the pulse. These output characteristics are achievable from the nJ stage up to the 500 mJ/pulse output of each arm, while we are currently upgrading the system to reach 2.5J/pulse/arm. We demonstrate the use of the chirped optical lattices delivered by this laser system for performing single-shot atomic and molecular gas translational spectroscopy and flow velocimetry with dual color coherent Rayleigh-Brillouin scattering, while discussing its potential use in different types of spectroscopy. Finally, it is envisioned that the chirped optical output delivered by this system can find applications in experimental techniques requiring the use of chirped optical lattices, such as e.g. optical Stark deceleration/acceleration.