A cylindrical molecular lens is formed by focusing a nanosecond IR laser pulse. Trajectories of a ${\mathrm{CS}}_2$ molecular beam deflected by the lens are traced using the velocity map imaging technique. The characteristic lens parameters including the focal length, minimum beam width, and distance to the minimum-width position are determined. The laser intensity dependence of the parameters is in good agreement with theoretical predictions. Exciting possibilities for molecular optics and a new type of optical chromatography are opened up.

• Received 13 December 1999

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.85.2705