Abstract: A resonantly pumped, trivalent thulium ion (Tm3+) doped, crystal laser with improved efficiency is disclosed. Embodiments are pumped from the 3H6 ground state manifold to the 1st excited 3F4 state manifold by photons with wavelengths between 1.4 and 2.2 microns and laser wavelengths ranging from 1.5 to 2.4 microns arising from 3F4 to 3H6 transitions ensue, with output wavelengths dependant upon the choice of pump wavelength, crystalline host, and resonator optics.

Abstract: A system for laser induced reduction of visual acuity suitable for crowd control and disabling of individuals uses an eye-safe pulsed IR source in which a laser beam is imaged onto the cornea of an individual to heat the cornea, thereby to cause defocusing and disorientation.

Abstract: A resonantly pumped, trivalent thulium ion (Tm3+) doped, crystal laser with improved efficiency is disclosed. Embodiments are pumped from the 3H6 ground state manifold to the 1st excited 3F4 state manifold by photons with wavelengths between 1.4 and 2.2 microns and laser wavelengths ranging from 1.5 to 2.4 microns arising from 3F4 to 3H6 transitions ensue, with output wavelengths dependant upon the choice of pump wavelength, crystalline host, and resonator optics.

Abstract: Commercial aircraft are protected from attack by infrared seeking guided missiles through the utilization of a ground-based directed infrared countermeasure system in which the deployment of an IR guided missile is detected off-aircraft and more particularly on the ground. An infrared laser beam is projected towards the detected missile such that the projected laser infrared radiation impinges upon the missile from the rear. The off-axis infrared radiation illuminates the IR transmissive dome at the head of the missile where it is internally reflected back towards the IR detector carried by the missile through the total internal reflection characteristics of the dome. The domes of these missiles are typically made of a high index of refraction IR transmissive materials such that the material is prone to total internal reflection. The infrared laser generated radiation is a modulated so as to interfere with the guidance system of the missile causing it to execute a turn and plunge to the ground.

Abstract: Commercial aircraft are protected from attack by infrared seeking guided missiles through the utilization of a ground-based directed infrared countermeasure system in which the deployment of an IR guided missile is detected off-aircraft and more particularly on the ground. An infrared laser beam is projected towards the detected missile such that the projected laser infrared radiation impinges upon the missile from the rear. The off-axis infrared radiation illuminates the IR transmissive dome at the head of the missile where it is internally reflected back towards the IR detector carried by the missile through the total internal reflection characteristics of the dome. The domes of these missiles are typically made of a high index of refraction IR transmissive materials such that the material is prone to total internal reflection. The infrared laser generated radiation is a modulated so as to interfere with the guidance system of the missile causing it to execute a turn and plunge to the ground.

Abstract: A high efficiency storage laser is achieved by pumping a Tm:LiYF.sub.4 laser from an electrically excited XeBr* fluorescer.

Abstract: A compact low-cost laser is provided by employing a solid state laser rod which is pumped by the optical radiation from the direct combustion of a metal in a flowing oxygen atmosphere.

Abstract: An eye-safe laser cloud height rangefinder comprising an Er:LiYF.sub.4 laser operating at 1.73 .mu.m and a germanium detector.

Abstract: Wavelength diversity in solid state lasers is achieved by providing a single laser rod comprising a host material and two different active ion species wherein each of the active ions also sensitizes the other active ion.The invention herein described was made in the course of or under a contract or subcontract thereunder with the Department of the Air Force.

Abstract: A room temperature, optically pumped, solid state laser operating at 0.75 micrometers including a Ho.sup.3+ :LiYF.sub.4 crystal provides an excellent source for optical target location systems and other applications which require a source of high peak power in the spectral region just beyond the visible - the "Deep Red".

Abstract: A single reticle is provided having spectral and spatial filtering characteristics such that it may be employed in radiation responsive systems for both passive tracking and active tracking employing a laser target designator.