Description: The purpose of this program is to develop a compact and efficient ultraviolet laser system for use in space-based uv-Raman instruments. The basis for this system will be a modulated diode seed laser followed by a fiber amplifier which is frequency-quadrupled to generate uv light at 245nm. The unique combination of a compact and efficient fiber amplifier with efficient harmonic generation will provide an ideal ultraviolet source for NASA missions in the Solar System.

Benefits: Frequency-doubled fiber lasers in the 490nm range can be used for display applications and in bio-medical instruments such as cell sorters, flow cytometers, and DNA sequencers. Frequency-tripled lasers in the 327nm range can be used for stereo-lithography and materials processing such as micro-machining. Frequency-quadrupled fiber-based systems near 245nm can be used for detection of chemical and biological agents.