Nd:YAG Long Lasers.
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.
Linford
G J
GJ
Hill
L W
LW