Diode Pumped 3 to 5 Micron Laser

Diode laser pumped gas phase molecules offer an attractive solution to a current crucial Air Force need: efficient, compact, reliable and rugged lasers that operate int he 3 to 5 and 8 to 12 micron wavelength range. Direct diode laser pumping or excitation via diode laser pumped solid state lasers both offer attractive reatures. From an efficiency and size perspective, the best solution is probably the direct diode laser pumped approach. However, this may be a longer term solution since high power diodes are still under development. In this proposal, we describe a program that will identify and demonstrate efficient laser pumped gas phase lasers that operate in the 3 to 5 micron wavelength region. We will develop and apply a screening methodology to identify and prioritize attractive candidate molecules. In addition, using existing equipment, we will demonstrate efficient laser oscillation on one or two of the most attractive candidates. We will also design a Phase II program that will extend the approach to the 8 to 12 micron range and develop an efficient prototype laser for Air Force applications. These lasers would also have a considerable commercial market.