Laser-controlled adaptive optics for beam quality improvements in a multi-pass thin-disk amplifier

Area of Science:

• Optics and Photonics
• Laser Technology
• Materials Science

Background:

• High-intensity laser systems require advanced adaptive optics to maintain beam quality.
• Conventional adaptive optical elements often face limitations due to heat sensitivity and mechanical complexity.
• Intracavity operation under high radiation poses significant challenges for optical components.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel laser-controlled adaptive optical element for high-intensity laser applications.
• To demonstrate an alternative to conventional mechanically deformable mirrors that is robust under high radiation.
• To evaluate the performance and potential enhancements of this new adaptive optical element.

Main Methods:

• A laser-controlled adaptive optical element was designed utilizing a specially engineered mirror and a continuous-wave control laser.
• The element was integrated into a water-cooled heat sink capable of withstanding laser radiation exceeding 3 MW/cm².
• The adaptive optical element's properties, including wavefront correction capabilities, were characterized.

Main Results:

• The adaptive optical element successfully operated intracavity under high-intensity radiation.
• It demonstrated a maximum correctable wavefront pitch of 800 nm.
• Implementation in a multi-pass thin-disk amplifier resulted in a threefold improvement in beam quality.

Conclusions:

• The developed laser-controlled adaptive optical element offers a robust and effective solution for high-intensity laser systems.
• It provides a viable alternative to conventional adaptive optics, overcoming limitations of heat sensitivity and mechanical complexity.
• Further enhancements are identified to optimize performance for efficient high-power laser operation.