PUMPED TRANSFORMER LASERS
Abstract
Most of the analysis in this period has dealt with use of metastable nitrogen molecules as the active medium for a transformer laser to be pumped by a battery of Nd glass auxiliary lasers. It was concluded that such a medium would be operable, but that adequate data are not at hand to produce optimism on reaching maximum output pulse energy densities in the nitrogen greater than the region of one joule/cc, with satisfactory maintenance of optical beam quality. An extension of previous analysis on a similar use of CN molecules indicates that this medium might be expected to yield satisfactory outputs around one joule/cc or somewhat greater. From the meager information available today, it appears that diatomic cesium molecules might possibly surpass CN and constitute the best medium for transformer action with Nd glass laser pumping. An experimental attack on some of the many remaining unknowns regarding Cs2 is now underway, and first preliminary tests are reported. A beginning has been made toward mathematical spatial analysis of the high power flux patterns to be expected within a heavily pumped transformer medium.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 22, 1965
- Accession Number
- AD0624481
Entities
People
- Cecil B. Ellis
- Donald S. Bayley
- James H. Simpson