Harmonic conversion of large-aperture 105-μm laser beams for inertial-confinement fusion research

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Abstract
To provide high-energy, high-power beams at short wavelengths for inertial-confinement fusion experiments, we routinely convert the 1.05-μm output of the Nova, Nd:phosphate-glass, laser system to its second- or third-harmonic wavelength. We describe the design and performance of the 3 × 3 arrays of potassium dihydrogen phosphate crystal plates used for type-II–type-II phase-matched harmonic conversion of the Nova 0.74-m diameter beams. We also describe an alternate type-I–type-II phase-matching configuration that improves third-harmonic conversion efficiency. These arrays provide conversion of a Nova beam of up to 75% to the second harmonic and of up to 70% to the third harmonic.