Multiwavelength Metal Vapor Laser Systems for Applied Spectroscopy of the Atmosphere

Results from a cycle of experimental studies of a multiwavelength metal vapor laser based on an original multimedia laser configuration are reported. This approach is novel in that two gas discharge active media (strontium and copper bromide vapor) are placed in a common cavity with each pumped separately by an independent power supply. This makes it possible to optimize them independently in terms of excitation conditions and permits operational control over the set of output wavelengths and their relative power distributions. This system is attractive for a number of scientific and technological applications. The total output power was ~17 W in 11 wavelengths ranging from 0.43 to 6.45 μm.