New pico- and femtosecond laser based sources: from the Infra-Red to the XUV

Abstract

In this paper, we review a number of recent developments concerning laser or laser-based sources generating pico- or subpicosecond pulses of light at wavelengths now ranging from the mid Infra-Red (50 um) to the XUV (11.9 nm). Those include the new generation of ,,Chirp Pulse Amplification`` laser systems, Free Electron Lasers operating in the IR or visible range, and a number of laser driven sources covering the XUV range, generally based on the high intensity irradiation of solid or gaseous targets. The main perspectives, applications and essential issues concerning such sources are discussed.