Near-infrared resonance-mediated chirp control of a coherently generated broadband deep-ultraviolet spectrum

We investigate the use of shaped near-infrared (NIR) femtosecond pulses to control the generation of coherent broadband deep-ultraviolet (DUV) radiation in an atomic resonance-mediated (2+1) three-photon excitation to a broad far-from-resonance continuum. Previously, we have shown control over the total emitted DUV yield. Here, we experimentally demonstrate phase control over the spectral characteristics (central frequency and bandwidth) of the emitted broadband DUV radiation. It is achieved by tuning the linear chirp applied to the exciting NIR femtosecond pulse. The study is conducted with Na vapor.