Diffraction induced space-time splitting effects in ultra-short pulse propagation

Diffraction induced space-time splitting effects are studied in the propagation of ultra-short optical pulses by an optimized numerical simulation technique, avoiding approximations used in exact calculations. Point-wise detection as well as detection in a two-plus-one dimension of a pulse are simulated. Effects of diffraction on the spectral and spatial-temporal features of pulse evolution are analysed for a rotationally nonsymmetric pulse. Delays in the arrival of the portions of the pulse travelling off-axis are visualized with accurate estimation of pulse arrival time and amplitude variations. Subtle effects of pulse splitting and recombination in space and time both in near and far field are brought out clearly.