Characterization of a continuous-wave Raman laser in H_2

We present a time-dependent theory that describes the continuous-wave (cw) Raman laser in ${\mathrm{H}}_2.$ The time-dependent theory is compared with existing theories, and threshold measurements are taken. The relative intensity noise of the pump and the Stokes beams is measured and found to be in agreement with the predictions of the presented theory. The Raman laser decreases the relative intensity noise of the pump beam by 34 dB/Hz at a frequency of 30 kHz. In addition, the spectral heterodyne beat-note linewidth of the continuous-wave Raman laser is measured to be 8 kHz.