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Updated: Jun 20, 2026
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20 mJ, 1 ps Yb:YAG Thin-disk Regenerative Amplifier
Published on: July 12, 2017
Summary
This study demonstrates the first directly solar-pumped laser operating at 77 Kelvin, using an Erbium, Thulium, Holmium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet laser rod. The system achieved 12 W average power, showcasing potential for sustainable laser technology.
Area of Science:
- Lasers and Photonics
- Sustainable Energy Technologies
- Solid-State Lasers
Background:
- Direct solar pumping offers a sustainable alternative for laser excitation.
- Achieving efficient quasi-continuous wave (quasi-cw) lasing requires careful thermal management.
- Erbium, Thulium, Holmium-doped Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Er,Tm,Ho:YAG) lasers are suitable for infrared applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate the feasibility of a directly solar-pumped laser system.
- To achieve quasi-cw lasing of the Holmium (Ho) ion using solar radiation.
- To investigate the performance and stability of such a system at cryogenic temperatures (77 K).
Main Methods:
- A 5-mm-diameter, 62-mm exposed-length Er,Tm,Ho:YAG rod was directly illuminated by solar radiation.
- Solar radiation was modulated using a 20% duty cycle chopper to manage thermal load.
- The laser was operated at 77 K to achieve Holmium ion lasing.
Main Results:
- The solar-pumped laser achieved an average output power of 12 W.
- Peak power exceeded 65 W during the chopper's open intervals.
- A slope efficiency of 3.8% and a threshold input energy of approximately 100 W were recorded.
- Stable laser performance was maintained for extended durations (up to hours).
Conclusions:
- This work represents the first direct solar-pumped laser operating at 77 K.
- The results validate the potential of solar energy for powering solid-state lasers.
- The system demonstrates stable and efficient operation, paving the way for future solar-powered laser applications.
