High-Power Pulsed Laser Design Using a Segmented Ruby Oscillator.
Abstract
A weatherproof high-power ruby laser suitable for use on range tracking mounts was designed and fabricated using a water-cooled segmented ruby oscillator (also variously referred to as a disk, zig-zag, slab, or axial gradient oscillator). A solid ruby rod (long cylinder) was not used as radial temperature gradients occurring within solid rods limit the pulse repetition rate to 1 pulse/second. Design goals for the laser were 30 megawatts peak power output at 10 pulses/second. Test results showed the maximum repetition rate was only 2 pulses/second, but this was attributed to an insufficient coolant flow through the segmented ruby oscillator. This report, which describes the laser, its various components, and its operation, also cites criteria for the design of an optimum unit. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0733072
Entities
People
- Gary Kvammen
Organizations
- Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake