High-average-power ultrafast laser amplifier with along-the-side end pumping

An approach to develop laser amplifiers is proposed based on the use of standard rod active elements with end diode pumping, the beam size of which is significantly smaller than the element cross section, and the beam center is shifted maximally close to the element cooled side surface. This approach allows effective gain and good thermal management, and offers technological simplicity. On the basis of this approach, an ultrafast Yb:YAG amplifier with >100W average power, reasonable depolarization, and good beam quality is developed. (C) 2022 Optica Publishing Group