Free-Space Fiber Optic Laser Rod

NASA's Langley Research Center has developed a compact, highly efficient, multi-purpose laser rod. This system employs a modular laser design with highly efficient and compact components. The laser consists of distinct building blocks to achieve wavelengths of 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 microns. Amplifier modules are based on a novel hybrid fiber rod concept. By confining the otherwise highly divergent pump radiation to a small channel via total internal reflection at a moderately high numerical aperture interface, the low-brightness diodes can pump with high power density over a moderately long absorption path, thereby achieving highly efficient pump absorption.