Active mode locking with a hybrid neodymium laser

A novel concept of mode locking with a hybrid laser was demonstrated in an actively mode-locked hybrid neodymium (Nd) laser, which contains both Nd:YLF and Nd:glass in a single cavity. A small gain from Nd:YLF can control the spectrum of Nd:glass and ensure good phase coherence among the lasing axial modes, generating stable, coherent pulses of 11 ps. The broadband Nd:glass can facilitate spectral broadening and produce shorter pulses than by Nd:YLF alone under the same mode-locking force. (C) 1997 American Institute of Physics.