A diffraction-limited, programmable pulse shaping network using a virtually integrated phased array (VIPA)-grating pair, integrated with a 2-d transmissive phase-only spatial light modulator (SLM) and a retro-array phase-conjugate mirror (RA-PCM). A high-temporal resolution, broadband pulse shaping network is realized using a 2-D VIPA-grating dispersive element pair, with a programmable SLM at a common Fourier transform plane. True wavefront reversal (“time reversal”) is realized using a self-starting RA-PCM, which compensates for system path distortions, misalignment, beam wander, vibrations and optical aberrations. Upon reverse transit through the system, the RA-PCM wavefront matches the set of virtual images emerging from the VIPA. The RA-PCM is a self-starting, low-power device, without frequency shifts, doesn't require pump beams and/or the need for high-intensity stimulated scattering threshold conditions to be met. Polarization decoupling enables the RA-PCM to compensate for optical distortions, while enabling the SLM to generate real time Fourier phase masks for programmable pulse shaping.