Polarization selection mechanisms of spatial patterns in broad-area vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers

In this work we identify the underlying mechanisms of polarization selection. Vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) with a large aperture emit, though longitudinal single mode, a rich spectrum of transverse modes, which is an intriguing subject for studying non-linear pattern formation. The material gain curve and the resonance of the laser cavity shift both depending on temperature, but with markedly different rates.