Abstract: A high pulse energy, side pumped laser is provided. The laser has an optical cavity formed between a first and a second reflective surface. A lasing medium is located within the cavity along its optical axis. A plurality of diode bars are provided in optical communication with the lasing medium preferably a lasing rod. The diode bars supply electromagnetic radiation to the lasing rod. The diode bars are configured about the lasing rod so that electromagnetic radiation from the diodes bars propagates through the lasing rod on a plurality of substantially nonintersecting paths. Since the lasing rod is side pumped, the substantially nonintersecting paths traverse the lasing rod substantially perpendicular to the direction of propagation of energy in the laser cavity.

Abstract: A matrix assisted laser desorption and ionization system is provided. The system includes a mass spectrometer for analyzing at least one sample. The mass spectrometer includes a sample receiving chamber for receiving a sample under a vacuum. A UV laser is provided for producing a UV beam along a first beam path that does not intersect with the sample. A beam expander is provided in optical communication with the UV laser beam to expand the diameter of the beam. A focusing system is provided in optical communication with the beam expander to focus the laser beam propagating from the beam expander to a predetermined minimum spot size. The focusing system is located along the path of the beam propagating from the beam expander so that the beam strikes the approximate optical center of the focusing system. A high reflecting mirror is provided in optical communication with the focused beam propagating from the focusing system to direct the focused beam to strike the sample at a preselected strike point.