Ultrahigh resolution optical coherence tomography using a superluminescent light source

A superluminescent Ti:Al2O(3) crystal is demonstrated as a light source for ultrahigh resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT). Single spatial mode, fiber coupled output powers of ~40 microW can be generated with 138 nm bandwidth using a 5 W frequency doubled, diode pumped laser, pumping a thin Ti:Al2O(3) crystal. Ultrahigh resolution OCT imaging is demonstrated with 2.2 microm axial resolution in air, or 1.7 microm in tissue, with >86 dB sensitivity. This light source provides a simple and robust alternative to femtosecond lasers for ultrahigh resolution OCT imaging.