High-power neodymium phosphate glass laser system with improved spectral and spatial characteristics of the radiation

A high-power single-pulse neodymium phosphate glass laser system having radiation characteristics similar to those of a plane linearly polarized monochromatic wave is described. Smooth profiles of the temporal and spatial distributions are achieved by using a single-frequency master oscillator and a simple system for formation of the spatial distribution of the radiation, provided that the quality of all the optical elements is controlled. It is noted that inhomogeneous broadening in the spectrum of Nd(3+) ions influences the gain of the laser radiation.