Schematic Diagram of TIPTOE Technology (IMAGE) Institute for Basic Science Caption Special mirrors divide a laser beam into a strong (EF) and a weak (ES) laser pulses. When the laser beams reach the air or gas-filled chamber, electrons 'escape' from their atoms (tunnel ionization) and are caught by the metal plates. Changes in ionization are used to measure the shape of the laser pulse. Credit IBS Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.