Burst-Mode Frequency-Doubled YAG:Nd(3+) Laser for Time-Sequenced High-Speed Photography and Holography

A frequency-doubled YAG:Nd(3+) laser system has been developed to serve as a source of illumination for high-speed photographic and holographic applications. A complete description of the laser system is presented. This laser is capable of generating a burst of 0.532-microm pulses of intense Q-switched light, equally spaced in time. Results presented include an example of a time-sequenced photograph of a hypervelocity impact and the reconstruction of an in-line hologram taken using the burst laser as a source. A summary of resolution and sensitivity of a series of photographic films for use at 0.6943 ,microm and 0.532 microm is also presented. This may prove useful in comparing ruby and doubled YAG:Nd(3+) for future photographic applications.