Observations of existence and instability dynamics of near-zero-dispersion temporal Kerr cavity solitons

Dissipative Kerr cavity solitons (CSs) are persisting pulses of light that manifest themselves in driven optical resonators and that have attracted significant attention over the last decade. Whilst the vast majority of studies have revolved around conditions where the resonator exhibits strong anomalous dispersion, recent studies have shown that solitons with unique characteristics and dynamics can arise under conditions of near-zero-dispersion driving. Here, we report on experimental studies of the existence and stability dynamics of Kerr CSs under such conditions. In particular, we experimentally probe the solitons' range of existence and examine how their breathing instabilities are modified when group-velocity dispersion is close to zero, such that higher-order dispersion terms play a significant role. On the one hand, our experiments directly confirm earlier theoretical works that predict (i) breathing near-zero-dispersion solitons to emit polychromatic dispersive radiation, and (ii) that higher-order dispersion can extend the range over which the solitons are stable. On the other hand, our experiments also reveal a novel cross-over scenario, whereby the influence of higher-order dispersion changes from stabilising to destabilising. Our comprehensive experiments sample soliton dynamics both in the normal and anomalous dispersion regimes, and our results are in good agreement with numerical simulations and theoretical predictions.

Automated summary

Experimental studies of dissipative Kerr cavity solitons under near-zero-dispersion driving conditions reveal unique characteristics and dynamics, with higher-order dispersion terms playing a significant role in modifying their stability. The experiments confirm theoretical predictions of polychromatic dispersive radiation emission and an extended stability range due to higher-order dispersion, as well as a novel cross-over scenario where the influence of higher-order dispersion changes from stabilising to destabilising. Overall, the results are consistent with numerical simulations and theoretical predictions, showcasing the soliton dynamics in both normal and anomalous dispersion regimes.