High-Energy Physics and Attosecond Science

High-energy physics and attosecond science represent two of the most exciting and cutting-edge application fields of ultrafast laser sources. Together, they aim to explore the behavior of matter at extreme temporal (attosecond, 10⁻¹⁸ s) and spatial (atomic) scales, offering unprecedented time-resolved "cameras" to observe electron dynamics and atomic–molecular motion. This field not only drives fundamental scientific breakthroughs but also fosters key technologies such as terahertz generation, high-order harmonic generation (HHG), X-ray generation, and nonlinear optics. The synergy between high-energy physics and attosecond science is realized through extreme nonlinear interactions of intense femtosecond lasers with matter—whether gases, solids, or plasmas—producing broadband coherent light from terahertz to X-ray wavelengths, thereby providing novel probing tools for materials research. Currently, this field is experiencing rapid growth. Continuous advances in HHG, terahertz and X-ray generation, and nonlinear optics are steadily expanding the frontiers of our ability to observe and understand the microscopic world.