Optically Pumped Mercury Lasers for Ring Laser Gyroscope Applications.
Abstract
In this investigation, both the theoretical and practical aspects of the optically pumped CW mercury vapor laser at 546.1 nm have been explored. A rate-equation analysis was used to develop a quantitative model describing the nitrogen pressure dependence of laser power output and unsaturated gain. Careful measurements show the model to be in excellent agreement with experiment. Measurements were also made as the pumping rates, bore diameter, and mercury density were varied. A qualitative treatment of the effects of high intensity pumping and radiation trapping is given, and this analysis is consistent with the observed behavior. The nitrogen quenching rate across the laser transition was found to be 700,000 per sec per torr, and the pressure broadening of the green laser line was inferred to be 26.4 MHz/Torr. A detailed description of the experimental apparatus is given. Together with the experimental measurements, this work can provide a basis for the design of practical mercury laser systems. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA049540
Entities
People
- A. E. Siegman
- N. C. Holmes
Organizations
- Stanford University