Linux · Education & Science
Lightwave Explorer
Easily simulate nonlinear optics
by Nick Karpowicz
Official site: flathub.org
About Lightwave Explorer
Lightwave explorer is an open source nonlinear optics simulator, intended to be fast, visual, and flexible for students and researchers to play with ultrashort laser pulses and nonlinear optics without having to buy a laser first. Supports both CUDA and CPU calculations. Its purpose and goals are:
Easily-extensible database of materials
Multiple physical models, including the unidirectional nonlinear wave equation and finite-difference time-domain approaches.
Efficient code so that complicated systems can be simulated in 3D: Real laser pulses can be messy, and if they weren't so before a nonlinear crystal, there's a good chance they are after. Multidimensional simulations open up the weird world of spatiotemporal couplings. You have options for very fast simulations when there's a symmetry to use (e.g. cylindrical), alongside fully 3D propagation
A graphical interface that lets you see what you're doing
A flexible sequence mode to string together elements: not just nonlinear crystals, also spherical or parabolic mirrors, apertures, filters, free space propagation and more
Fitting/optimization routines
A Python module for easy postprocessing
How to install Lightwave Explorer
- Click Download — the developer's official website opens in a new tab.
- Download the latest version there and run it. Choose Custom/Advanced where offered, and skip any bundled extras.
- Prefer the command line? With Flatpak you can install and update it with: flatpak install flathub io.github.NickKarpowicz.LightwaveExplorer
- Open Lightwave Explorer once it finishes installing.
Frequently asked questions
Is Lightwave Explorer free to download?
Yes. The Download button sends you to flathub.org, the developer's official site, where Lightwave Explorer is available to download. Flatnic doesn't host or modify any files.
How do I install Lightwave Explorer from the command line?
With Flatpak, run: flatpak install flathub io.github.NickKarpowicz.LightwaveExplorer. This installs it from the official source and keeps it updated.
Is Lightwave Explorer safe?
Lightwave Explorer downloads directly from the developer. As always, scan the installer with your antivirus and choose Custom setup to skip any bundled extras.