Device aspects of a far-infrared water vapor laser

This paper reports on recent work on output coupling, pulsed power output, frequency and mode control of a water vapor laser oscillator. Also the characteristics of a waver vapor laser amplifier will be described. Using a semi-confocal laser cavity consisting of a spherical metal mirror and a flat silicon mirror with the second side a spherical surface, the power from a water vapor laser can be focused and increased above the hundred watt level. At this pulsed power level, the rapid attenuation of the laser signal in moist air results in a loud acoustical noise. This acoustic effect persists even if the laser signal is passed through a monochromator. Wavelength measurements using only the ear as a detector can be accurately made.