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Microwave Photonics Systems Based on Whispering-gallery-mode Resonators

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Stability of optical resonators with an active medium.

U Ganiel, Y Silberberg

|February 6, 2010

Summary

Gaussian modes in optical resonators are stable when gain is highest on the axis. Off-axis gain leads to unstable modes, diverging to infinite spot size, impacting resonator performance.

Area of Science:

* Optical physics and resonator design.
* Laser engineering and mode stability analysis.

Background:

* Investigating the stability of Gaussian modes in optical resonators with large apertures is crucial for laser performance.
* A discrepancy in previous research on mode stability necessitates clarification.

Purpose of the Study:

* To analyze the stability of Gaussian modes in optical resonators with gain and index profiles.
* To resolve conflicting results from prior investigations on resonator mode stability.

Main Methods:

* Theoretical examination of Gaussian mode stability in optical resonators.
* Analysis of gain and index profiles within the resonator medium.
* Evaluation of mode behavior under varying gain distribution.

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Main Results:

* Resonator modes are stable when the gain profile is highest on the resonator axis.
* If gain increases away from the axis, calculated Gaussian eigenmodes become unstable.
* Unstable modes diverge to an infinite spot size with slight parameter deviations.

Conclusions:

* Gain distribution is a critical factor determining Gaussian mode stability in optical resonators.
* On-axis gain is essential for maintaining stable Gaussian modes.
* Off-axis gain profiles lead to inherent instability in resonator modes.