Tunable, cw operation of a multiwatt forsterite laser

Area of Science:

• Laser Physics
• Quantum Optics
• Solid-State Lasers

Background:

• Chromium-doped forsterite (Cr:forsterite) lasers are known for their broad tuning range in the near-infrared.
• Cryogenic operation can enhance laser performance by reducing thermal effects and improving material properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the performance of a continuous-wave (cw) chromium-doped forsterite laser operated at cryogenic temperatures.
• To determine the output power and tuning characteristics of the Cr:forsterite laser system.
• To assess the impact of temperature on laser output power.

Main Methods:

• Pumping a Cr:forsterite laser crystal with a 7.3-W Nd:YAG laser operating at 1.06 micrometers.
• Operating the Cr:forsterite laser at a cryogenic temperature of 77 K.
• Measuring the output power and tuning range of the laser system.
• Comparing laser performance at 77 K with operation at room temperature.

Main Results:

• Achieved over 1.8 W of output power from the cw Cr:forsterite laser at 77 K.
• The forsterite laser demonstrated smooth tuning across the wavelength range of 1.2 to 1.32 micrometers.
• Output power decreased to approximately 35% of the cryogenic level when operated at room temperature.

Conclusions:

• Cryogenic operation significantly enhances the output power of cw chromium-doped forsterite lasers.
• The Cr:forsterite laser system offers a valuable tunable source in the 1.2-1.32 micrometer range.
• Temperature management is critical for optimizing the performance of Cr:forsterite laser systems.