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The optimization of a 10-kJ large aperture (1-X 1-m) electron-beam-pumped KrF laser is investigated theoretically. Model calculations in zero and one dimension have been performed over extensive ranges in a few parameters for optimization of output fluence. A practical procedure for one-dimensional modeling is given, and significant differences between calculations performed in zero and one dimension are discussed. Predictions are compared to preliminary experimental results. The model is then applied to a regime of much higher electron energy deposition and total gas pressure. Some aspects of the operation of such a laser are discussed. Applications to inertial confinement fusion are described.

Recently, the Raman effect has been shown to have a profound implication for high power lasers. The implications are both beneficial and deleterious.

The large aperture module (LAM) is the final amplifier of the Los Alamos Aurora krypton fluoride (KrF) laser system.1 Ah artist’s conception of the device is shown in Fig. 1. It consists of a laser chamber with a 1-× 1-m aperture and a 2-m active length which is directly pumped by opposing 1- × 2-m electron beams (up to 675 kV at 20 A/cm2). Each electron gun is driven by two 2.7-Ω water pulse forming lines (PFLs) connected in parallel. The PFLs are each 10.7 m long giving a 650-nsec pump pulse. Each pair of water lines is pulse charged by a Marx generator capable of producing up to 1.8 MV. A pair of Helmholz coils is provided to prevent beam pinching in the diodes and to ensure uniform pumping in the laser gas volume. The laser chamber can be filled with up to 1.5 atm of an Ar/ Kr/F2 lasing mixture.