The Reitze Group

These characteristics from the basis for the two major research themes in the Reitze Group.  The major focus of the ultrafast optics group is to probe and control dynamical laser-matter interactions on ultrafast time scales (10^-15 s). Through technological advances in lasers and pulse-sculpting technologies, it is now possible to guide the quantum mechanical motion of an atom, molecule, or solid, much in the same way as a computer guides the motion of an airplane.  Adaptive (or learning) control interfaces atomic, molecular, and solid state systems with computer-based learning algorithms through the use of temporally sculpted laser pulses as short as 10 femtoseconds to teach the system to evolve to a desired final state.  This work has wide applications in physics and chemistry as well as optical engineering.

The major focus of the gravitational wave physics group is to develop instrumentation to probe the dynamic structure of space-time (gravitational waves).  A variety of experimental programs are underway, including the design of next generation large scale gravitational wave interferometers for the Laser Interferometer Gravitational Wave Observatory, investigations of high power laser interactions with optical components,  and the development of advanced interferometer topologies for improved sensitivity.  This work is carried out in collaboration with the Tanner group and the Mueller group.