OBSERVATION OF LASER OSCILLATION IN NITRIC-OXIDE AT 218-NM

We have recently proposed a scheme to produce coherent radiation at eight or more wavelengths between 158 and 242 nm by optically pumping a high-lying electronic level of nitric oxide. We report here the successful operation of this scheme to produce laser oscillation at 218 nm. The possibility of using this scheme to produce laser oscillation at other wavelengths is discussed. © 1990 Optical Society of America.