Measurements and modeling of optical distortions relaxation in high power Nd:glass lasers

Evolution of wavefront aberrations in high-power solid-state laser (Nd:glass laser) was measured and analyzed. The measurements were performed by Shack-Hartmann wavefront (SHW) sensor. The technical opportunities of such type sensors both device for measurements and element of Adaptive Optical Systems to correct for wavefront aberrations are demonstrated in this report. Analysis of damping distortions shows that its damping has thermal nature and can be described well by non-stationary equation of diffusion at pumping and cooling of Nd:glass-slab. Theoretical estimations of aberrations dynamics is in good agreement with the experimental data.