Optimization of Long Life Laser Device.

Abstract

A CW, long life Nd:YAG laser device utilizing an RF-excited electrodeless krypton arc lamp and appropriate for use in space has been designed, fabricated, optimized and tested. Multimode output power in excess of 1.5 watts and TEM mode output in excess of 0.6 (0.5 watts plane polarized) have been achieved for only 250 watts of RF input power. The 4MM diameter by 25mm long Nd:YAG laser rod was conductively cooled in all three models of the device tested in this program. However, in one model all components, including the RF excited electrodeless krypton arc lamp and the diffuse reflector/coil assembly were completely conductively cooled, thereby satisfying an essential requirement for spacecraft operation. Essentially degradation-free lamp operation was also demonstrated during a 10,000 hour life test at an RF input power level of 150 watts. The life test lamp was air cooled. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Oct 01, 1977
Accession Number
ADB029987

Entities

People

  • David A. Huchital
  • L. Jay Rosenkrantz

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Cooled
  • Arc Lamps
  • Assembly
  • Degradation
  • Diameters
  • Lamps
  • Lasers
  • Life Tests
  • Long Life
  • Multimode
  • Optimization
  • Power Levels
  • Reflectors
  • Spacecraft
  • Yag Lasers

Fields of Study

  • Physics

Readers

  • Optical Physics and Photonics.
  • Plasma Physics.
  • Software Engineering

Technology Areas

  • Directed Energy
  • Space
  • Space - Hall-Effect Thruster
  • Space - Satellites