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Time-resolved thermally induced aberrations in a flash-lamp pumped Nd:Glass disk amplifier using a 2 × 2 position
M Ahmad1, M Galletti2, P Oliveira2
1School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, United Kingdom.
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|January 3, 2020
Summary
A new method precisely measures thermal aberrations in large laser amplifiers. This technique reconstructs wave-front profiles, crucial for optimizing laser performance and understanding thermal effects in optical systems.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Laser Science
- Materials Science
Background:
- Large-aperture laser systems are susceptible to thermal aberrations.
- Accurate measurement of these aberrations is critical for beam quality.
- Flash-lamp pumped Nd3+ glass disk amplifiers present unique diagnostic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel technique for measuring prompt, thermally induced wave-front aberrations.
- To characterize these aberrations in a large-aperture flash-lamp pumped Nd3+ glass disk amplifier.
- To demonstrate the capability of reconstructing wave-front profiles.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of a diagnostic system using a 2x2 lens array.
- Utilization of a 2x2 position-sensitive detector array.
- Reconstruction of wave-front profiles based on measured data.
Main Results:
- Successfully measured prompt, thermally induced wave-front aberrations.
- Reconstructed the wave-front profile for the first five Zernike terms.
- Achieved measurements within a temporal window of 8.5 ms.
Conclusions:
- The novel technique provides accurate characterization of thermal aberrations.
- This method is effective for large-aperture laser amplifiers.
- The results contribute to improved understanding and control of laser beam quality.
