Moving picture recording and observation of three-dimensional image of femtosecond light pulse propagation

We recorded and observed, for the first time, three-dimensional image of femtosecond light pulse propagation as continuous moving picture using light-in-flight recording by holography. We present the moving pictures of collimated and converging light pulses and some images extracted from them. We also discussed inherent feature appearing in the images. Such a discussion is essential to determine the actual shape of the propagating light pulse. This technique provides the means for observation of a temporally and spatially continuous moving picture of light itself and also enables the analysis of various kinds of ultrafast phenomena. (C) 2007 Optical Society of America.