Multimode soliton collisions in graded-index optical fibers

In this work, we unveil the unique complex dynamics of multimode soliton interactions in graded-index optical fibers through simulations and experiments. By generating two multimode solitons from the fission of an input femtosecond pulse, we examine the evolution of their Raman-induced red-shift when the input pulse energy grows larger. Remarkably, we find that the output red-shift of the trailing multimode soliton may be reduced, so that it accelerates until it collides with the leading multimode soliton. As a result of the inelastic collision, a significant energy transfer occurs between the two multimode solitons: the trailing soliton captures energy from the leading soliton, which ultimately enhances its red-shift, thus increasing temporal separation between the two multimode solitons.