Characterization of Hermite--Gaussian Beams by Using Hartmann--Shack Wavefront Sensor

A Hartmann--Shack wavefront sensor (HSWS) is used in characterization of Hermite--Gaussian beams that are generated from a laser-diode pumped mode generator. By measuring the intensity distribution and the phase gradient distribution of the Hermite--Gaussian beams, we determine the beam width, radius of curvature and M²-factor from the images recorded in the HSWS. The results obtained from the HSWS measurement are compared with the ones obtained from the caustic measurement.