Real-Time Optical Time Interpolation Using Spectral Interferometry

A simple scheme for all-optical time interpolation using spectral interferometry is put forward that is in principle capable of single-shot measurements. In this method, the arrival time of optical timing pulses is encoded into the spectrum of a time-stretched supercontinuum via cross-phase modulation. The proof-of-concept test setup points toward femtosecond-level absolute timing capabilities with only minor additions to modern optical clockwork.