Compact High Power Laser

A missing key component in current laser systems for target tracking/identification and optical remote sensors is a compact, high repetition rate, moderate average power (10W) laser operating at eyesafe wavelengths. To meet this need, a diode-pumped solid state laser is proposed which utilizes an exceptionally small and robust package scheme for high efficiency systems. The design capitalizes on an innovative Solid State Raman Laser (SSRL) operating at 1,5 micron wavelength. When compared to other IR lasers and frequency converters, SSRLs offer significant advantages: (1) beam clean-up, where low beam quality pump lasers are converted to near diffraction-limited eyesafe output: (2) temporal pulse compression, which enhances range resolution; (3) higher nonlinear gain; (4) small physical layouts; (5) lower cost crystals. Moreover, SSRLs are not birefringent phase matched, as optional parametric oscillators are, so high power operation is not limited by thermally-induced dephasing and nonlinear crystal temperature control is not required, reduced package complexity and size. Coupling CTI's experience in SSRLs with its established capability in turnkey flight-worthy systems will facilitate new dual-use lasers. Phase I will: (1) design and analyze the Phase II delivery system, (2) perform thermal; analysis of all components to ensure technical feasibility and, (3) validate the SSRL component in laboratory demonstrations.