Gaafar, Mahmoud AbdelazisMahmoud AbdelazisGaafarRahimi-Iman, ArashArashRahimi-ImanFedorova, Ksenia A.Ksenia A.FedorovaStolz, WolfgangWolfgangStolzRafailov, Edik U.Edik U.RafailovKoch, MartinMartinKoch2020-04-222020-04-222016-09-30Advances in Optics and Photonics 3 (8): 370-400 (2016-09-30)http://hdl.handle.net/11420/5813This paper will review the recent advances in the field of ultrashort pulse generation from optically pumped vertical-external-cavity surface-emitting lasers (OP-VECSELs). In this review, we will summarize the most significant results presented over the last 15 years, before highlighting recent breakthroughs related to mode-locked VECSELs by different research groups. Different mode-locking techniques for OP-VECSELs are described in detail. Previously, saturable absorbers, such as semiconductor saturable absorber mirrors—external, or internal as in mode-locked integrated external-cavity surface emitting lasers (MIXSEL) —, and recently, novel-material-based carbon-nanotube and graphene saturable absorbers have been employed. A new mode-locking method was presented and discussed in recent years. This method is referred to as self-mode-locking or saturable-absorber-free operation of mode-locked VECSELs. In this context, we particularly focus on achievements regarding self-mode-locking, which is considered a promising technique for the realization of high-power, compact, robust and cost-efficient ultrashort pulse lasers. To date, the presented mode-locking techniques have led to great enhancement in average powers, peak powers, and repetition rates that can be achieved with passively mode-locked VECSELs.en1943-82062016370400Mode-locked lasersSemiconductor lasersVertical emitting lasersIngenieurwissenschaftenReview Article10.1364/AOP.8.000370Other