Abstract: A neodymium or other rare earth doped solid state laser is pumped by a matched high efficiency laser diode, including a diode array and a multi-spatial mode extended emitter diode, resulting in a compact, high efficiency and long lifetime laser assembly. The cavity mode volume is matched to a region of absorption in the pumping volume formed by the focused diode beam. Output is in the near infrared range, but can be converted to the visible spectrum by an intra-cavity frequency doubler. A doubling crystal, e.g., KTP, is placed in an optimum location in the laser cavity. Polarization of the beam for frequency doubling may be achieved by using a birefringent material for the rod or by stressing a non-birefringent rod. An amplitude noise suppression etalon may also be placed at an optimum position in the laser cavity. A folded cavity configuration produces a pair of beam waists in the cavity. Pulsed operation can be produced by means of a Q-switch.