Space-time wave packets with both arbitrary transverse and longitudinal accelerations

Abstract

The group velocity in the free space of space-time wave packets (STWPs) and light bullets can be flexibly regulated by many advanced strategies; however, these regulations are restricted to only the longitudinal group velocity. In this work, a computational model based on catastrophe theory is proposed, to devise STWPs with both arbitrary transverse and longitudinal accelerations. In particular, we investigate the attenuation-free Pearcey–Gauss STWP, which enriches the family of non-diffracting STWPs. This work may advance the development of space-time structured light fields.