Repetitively pulsed, tunable ruby laser with solid etalon mode control.

A repetitively pulsed, tunable ruby laser has been designed and constructed as a light source for high resolution absorption spectroscopy and selective photochemical excitation. The frequency is tuned over a range of approximately 20 cm(-1) by changing the temperature of the ruby. The use of a solid sapphire etalon for mode control results in linewidth and stability within 0.04 cm(-1) over durations exceeding 25,000 consecutive pulses. Repetition rates of up to 2 pulses/sec at output energies of 0.5 J/pulse are maintained. Design and performance features of the laser are presented, and examples of its application are shown.