Abstract: A fiber optic probe comprises a pair of substantially parallel optical fibers separated by a gap and positioned in a centrifuge tube which contains a stratified medium. The pair of fibers includes a transmit fiber for directing light from a light source into a substantially undisturbed portion of the stratified medium disposed in the gap. Light traversing the portion of the stratified medium in the gap is collected by a receive fiber and provides an indication of a light property of the portion of the stratified medium disposed in the gap. The pair of fibers are adapted to be moved in the stratified medium without significantly disturbing the stratification of the medium. As the fibers are moved, light property measurements can be obtained in other substantially undisturbed portions of the stratified medium.

Abstract: A fiber optic probe comprises a pair of substantially parallel optical fibers separated by a gap and positioned in a centrifuge tube which contains a stratified medium. The pair of fibers includes a transmit fiber for directing light from a light source into a substantially undisturbed portion of the stratified medium disposed in the gap. Light traversing the portion of the stratified medium in the gap is collected by a receive fiber and provides an indication of a light property of the portion of the stratified medium disposed in the gap. The pair of fibers are adapted to be moved in the stratified medium without significantly disturbing the stratification of the medium. As the fibers are moved, light property measurements can be obtained in other substantially undisturbed portions of the stratified medium.

Abstract: An optical coupler couples optical fibers carrying high energy signals. The coupler includes an adapter thaat interfaces two optical connectors. The optical connectors are positioned within the adapter to bring two optical fibers into optical communication. The optical connectors fit into the adapter in a manner than imposes a gap of at least 0.001 inch and preferably between 0.003 to 0.005 inch between the optical fibers. Moreover, the optical connectors include bevelled ferrules that provide additional space at the interface between the fibers. The gap and the space between the fiber work in conjunction to minimize damage to the fibers.

Abstract: A delivery arrangement for CO.sub.2 (carbon dioxide) laser radiation is described which is particularly designed for laser medical systems. The delivery arrangement has three components--an articulated arm connectable to a CO.sub.2 laser head, a waveguide probe for directing CO.sub.2 laser radiation to an operating site, and a coupler for conditioning CO.sub.2 laser radiation emanating from the arm for coupling into the waveguide probe.