Quantum Battles in Attoscience

Attosecond (10−18s) science has emerged from the study of the interaction of matter with intense laser fields, and it is the natural successor of femtochemistry [1]. Its main objective is to resolve and ultimately control electron dynamics in real time. Electrons play a key role in photosynthesis, destroy or modify molecules, and can be used for information processing in human-made devices. This wide range of applications and huge potential for attosecond imaging of matter has made it a hugely popular and expanding area. Unfortunately, this rapid growth has led to a vast, fragmented methodological landscape, with many conflicting views.