A double-ended, unstable resonator submillimeter laser

The characteristics of a pulsed, methyl fluoride laser utilizing a novel, double-ended unstable resonator are described. The design incorporates an intracavity, double-faced scraper mirror to produce separate input/output ports for CO 2 pump laser excitation and submillimeter laser output. Experimental results show that this configuration achieves state-of-the-art conversion efficiency and diffraction-limited beam quality.