Abstract: A pulsed electric discharge gas laser driven by a folded Blumlein transmission line with liquid dielectric. A method of preionizing and firing the laser discharge utilizing the Blumlein voltage pre-pulse for preionization and the subsequent main voltage pulse for gap switch breakdown. A spark gap switch construction with first and second elongate electrodes, with the first electrode presenting a generally rounded surface to the second electrode which incorporates a thin continuous edge facing the first electrode. An elongate apertured cathode at the lasing chamber, with an elongate preionization electrode positioned behind the cathode, and a power supply providing a preionization electrical pulse across the cathode and preionization electrode producing ions and electrons in the lasing gas prior to the main discharge between the anode and cathode.

Abstract: An e-beam pumped laser employs a hollow cylindrical anode and cathode structure, the cathode being externally concentric with the anode. The lasing gas is contained within a chamber formed by the anode, an optical oscillator cavity being formed between mirrors placed at opposite ends of the anode chamber. The laser gas is excited by means of an e-beam directed radially inwardly from the cathode through the walls of the anode, which are formed of a thin foil, into the laser gas cavity.