Publications Details

Optical properties of a nuclear reactor pumped gas laser

Corvo, A.

Ray paths and focal lengths are derived to fourth order for a nuclear-reactor wall-pumped gas laser. Ray paths in the laser gain cell are shown to be nearly random for a long gain region. Focal lengths calculated from the ray paths exiting the laser are shown to oscillate between {plus minus} {infinity} during pumping. The use of stimulated Brillouin scattering as a means for beam clean-up is discussed with the conclusion that the phase conjugated beam would cycle on and off as the ray paths and focal lengths oscillate between extremes. The parameters determining this cycling effect and its characteristics are also derived. 17 refs., 11 figs., 1 tab.