title: Multiple pass unstable resonator for an annular gain CO2 laser.
abstract: The design, construction, and operational characteristics of an optical resonator for an annular gain media are described. The system, developed for laser power extraction investigations in a new type of coaxial discharge geometry, features a folded multipass unstable resonator concept, fabricated from lightweight uncoated diamond-turned aluminum substrates. The resulting cw CO2 device incorporates excitation aspects of the nonself-sustained PIE excitation process in addition to a new magnetic discharge stabilization technique. Laser performance and output beam characteristics are presented.
authors.affiliation: University of Alberta, Department of Electrical Engineering, Edmonton, Alberta T6G 2G7.
authors.forename: V A
authors.initials: VA
authors.lastname: Sequin
authors.forename: H J
authors.initials: HJ
authors.lastname: Sequin
authors.forename: C E
authors.initials: CE
authors.lastname: Capjack
authors.forename: S K
authors.initials: SK
authors.lastname: Nikumb
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Reshef