arXiv subjects

N. Weisse

Publications and source records attributed to N. Weisse.

4 recordsLinked to original sources

arXiv2025

Information-Optimal Sensing and Control in High-Intensity Laser Experiments

High-intensity laser systems present unique measurement and optimization challenges due to their high complexity, low repetition rates, and shot-to-shot variations. We discuss recent developments towards a unified framework based on information theory and Bayesian inference that addresses these challenges. Starting from fundamental constraints on the physical field structure, we recently demonstrated how to capture complete spatio-temporal information about individual petawatt laser pulses. Building on this foundation, we demonstrate how Bayesian frameworks can leverage temporal correlations between consecutive pulses to improve measurement precision. We then extend these concepts to active sensing strategies that adaptively select measurements to maximize information gain, exemplified through Bayesian autocorrelation spectroscopy. Finally, we show how these information-optimal measurement principles naturally extend to Bayesian optimization. This progression represents a paradigm shift where measurement devices transition from passive data collectors to active participants in complex experiments.

physics.optics↗

arXiv2025

A Bayesian perspective on single-shot laser characterization

We introduce a Bayesian framework for measuring spatio-temporal couplings (STCs) in ultra-intense lasers that reconceptualizes what constitutes a 'single-shot' measurement. Moving beyond traditional distinctions between single- and multi-shot devices, our approach provides rigorous criteria for determining when measurements can truly resolve individual laser shots rather than statistical averages. This framework shows that single-shot capability is not an intrinsic device property but emerges from the relationship between measurement precision and inherent parameter variability. Implementing this approach with a new measurement device at the ATLAS-3000 petawatt laser, we provide the first quantitative uncertainty bounds on pulse front tilt and curvature. Notably, we observe that our Bayesian method reduces uncertainty by up to 60% compared to traditional approaches. Through this analysis, we reveal how the interplay between measurement precision and intrinsic system variability defines achievable resolution -- insights that have direct implications for applications where precise control of laser-matter interaction is critical.

physics.optics↗

arXiv2024

Sparse Reconstruction of Wavefronts using an Over-Complete Phase Dictionary

Wavefront reconstruction is a critical component in various optical systems, including adaptive optics, interferometry, and phase contrast imaging. Traditional reconstruction methods often employ either the Cartesian (pixel) basis or the Zernike polynomial basis. While the Cartesian basis is adept at capturing high-frequency features, it is susceptible to overfitting and inefficiencies due to the high number of degrees of freedom. The Zernike basis efficiently represents common optical aberrations but struggles with complex or non-standard wavefronts such as optical vortices, Bessel beams, or wavefronts with sharp discontinuities. This paper introduces a novel approach to wavefront reconstruction using an over-complete phase dictionary combined with sparse representation techniques. By constructing a dictionary that includes a diverse set of basis functions - ranging from Zernike polynomials to specialized functions representing optical vortices and other complex modes - we enable a more flexible and efficient representation of complex wavefronts. Furthermore, a trainable affine transform is implemented to account for misalignment. Utilizing principles from compressed sensing and sparse coding, we enforce sparsity in the coefficient space to avoid overfitting and enhance robustness to noise.

physics.optics↗

arXiv2023

Pareto Optimization of a Laser Wakefield Accelerator

Optimization of accelerator performance parameters is limited by numerous trade-offs and finding the appropriate balance between optimization goals for an unknown system is challenging to achieve. Here we show that multi-objective Bayesian optimization can map the solution space of a laser wakefield accelerator in a very sample-efficient way. Using a Gaussian mixture model, we isolate contributions related to an electron bunch at a certain energy and we observe that there exists a wide range of Pareto-optimal solutions that trade beam energy versus charge at similar laser-to-beam efficiency. However, many applications such as light sources require particle beams at a certain target energy. Once such a constraint is introduced we observe a direct trade-off between energy spread and accelerator efficiency. We furthermore demonstrate how specific solutions can be exploited using \emph{a posteriori} scalarization of the objectives, thereby efficiently splitting the exploration and exploitation phases.

physics.acc-ph↗