title: Optimization of a Raman shifted dye laser system for DIAL applications.
abstract: We describe an efficient Raman shifted dye laser system that generates tunable radiation at 765 and 940 nm with a bandwidth of 0.03 cm(-1). Operating a Raman cell at hydrogen pressure below 14 atm, we recorded optimum first Stokes energy conversions of 45% and of 37% at 765 and 940 nm, respectively. Optical depth measurements made at the centers of twenty-five absorption lines in the P branch of the oxygen A band imply a high spectral purity for both the laser and the Raman shifted radiation, and thus indicate the feasibility of using the stimulated Raman scattered radiation for differential absorption lidar (DIAL) measurements.
authors.forename: U N
authors.initials: UN
authors.lastname: Singh
authors.forename: Z
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Chu
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Mahon
authors.forename: T D
authors.initials: TD
authors.lastname: Wilkerson