Near-threshold harmonics from a femtosecond enhancement cavity-based EUV source: effects of multiple quantum pathways on spatial profile and yield

We investigate the photon flux and far-field spatial profiles for near-threshold harmonics produced with a 66 MHz femtosecond enhancement cavity-based EUV source operating in the tight-focus regime. The effects of multiple quantum pathways in the far-field spatial profile and harmonic yield show a strong dependence on gas jet dynamics, particularly nozzle diameter and position. This simple system, consisting of only a 700 mW Ti:Sapphire oscillator and an enhancement cavity produces harmonics up to 20 eV with an estimated 30-100 mu W of power (intracavity) and > 1 mu W (measured) of power spectrally-resolved and out-coupled from the cavity. While this power is already suitable for applications, a quantum mechanical model of the system indicates substantial improvements should be possible with technical upgrades. (C) 2011 Optical Society of America