Molecular lasers in E-beam stabilized discharges

The reported program is directed toward developing efficient, high energy density electric discharge lasers in the infrared and visible regions of the spectrum. A high current, electron-beam-stabilized, electric discharge is used for excitation. Infrared laser emission and absorption from the vibrational levels of HF (2.8 to 3.1 micrometers) and DF (3.8 to 4.1 micrometers) in various gas mixtures is being studied to determine laser efficiency and to obtain a detailed model of the vibrational kinetics. The efficiency of electric discharge excitation of molecular vibration in these gases is being determined by solving the electron Boltzmann equation. Electronic state excitation by e-beam stabilized electric discharges in N2 and other molecular systems is being investigated in an effort to develop efficient, long pulse visible lasers.