Abstract: A dye laser is described that has an optical resonator structure which is modular in construction. The resonator includes a first base plate that has all of the optical elements typically found in a basic linear dye laser. A second base plate is rigidly securable to the first base plate to extend the resonator structure for either ring operation or for more differing linear dye laser configurations. The second base plate can include those optical elements required to cooperate with the optical elements on the first base plate to provide ring operation. Additional and differing modular units can be provided and secured to the two base plates making up the optical resonator structure to satisfy many different criteria. Moreover, a third base plate is rigidly securable between the first two base plates to further extend the resonator structure as desired.

Abstract: A dye laser having an improved dye jet nozzle and its method of manufacture is described. The exit aperture of the nozzle is provided by a nozzle end assembly made up of a plurality of blocks of material which are in optical contact with one another. The liquid channel defined by the blocks is provided with optically flat surfaces which minimize interference with uniform liquid flow therethrough. Moreover, edges are provided for the exit aperture defined by the blocks by polishing the same while they are supported, so that the resulting edges have a minimum of imperfections.