Optically Pumped Semiconductor Lasers for Precision Spectroscopic Applications

Optically pumped semiconductor lasers in conjunction with intra-cavity frequency conversion and tuning elements offer high continuous-wave power, narrow linewidth, and broad tunability. As a result, they are well suited to precision spectroscopic applications. We describe the development and testing of optically pumped semiconductor lasers operating at fundamental wavelengths of 1119 and 1178 nm. The fourth and second harmonic wavelengths are resonant with transitions in Mg II and Na I, respectively. We demonstrate continuously tunable, single-frequency lasers with watt-level average power at 1119, 1178, and 589 nm.