title: Nd:YAG Long Lasers.
abstract: The oscillation characteristics and dynamics of Nd:YAG long lasers are described. Nd:YAG laser cavities ranging in length from 1 m to over 6.3 km were constructed and operated. The development of laser oscillation, power output, active angular fields, and resonances of the circulating optical flux were monitored. Although Nd:YAG is a homogeneously broadened laser amplifier, the Nd:YAG long laser exhibited characteristics of inhomogeneously broadened lasers of conventional lengths. A dynamical resonance was observed and identified as a resonance between the laser amplifier pumping rate and the stimulated emission rate.
authors.forename: G J
authors.initials: GJ
authors.lastname: Linford
authors.forename: L W
authors.initials: LW
authors.lastname: Hill