High power, high efficiency, 2D laser diode arrays for pumping solid state lasers

To be considered viable for space applications, the lifetime and efficiency of solid-state lasers must be improved. A promising technique involves replacing the flashlamp pump sources currently used with arrays of semiconductor laser diodes. Such arrays must provide high-power density, be highly efficient, and operate at a wavelength which closely matches the absorption band of the solid-state laser material in question. We report the performance of 2-D diode arrays operating at 770 and 808 nm for pumping promethium and neodymium solid-state lasers, respectively.