Abstract

We derive a theoretical model based on a generalized Jones matrix formalism to calculate the eigenstates of lasers with N propagation axes. Spatial separation of the beams is realized inside the cavity by a collection of double-refraction crystals. This method allows one to adapt the mode volume to the geometry of the active medium. N-forked eigenstates are isolated, and the possibility of scaling up the TEM₀₀ output power of a monomode laser is shown. All these features are tested experimentally in two-, four-, and eight-axis lasers and show good agreement with the theoretical predictions.

© 1996 Optical Society of America

Coherent addition of adjacent lasers by forked eigenstate operation

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