SELF-MODE-LOCKED CR-FORSTERITE LASER

We have demonstrated self-sustaining operation of a mode-locked chromi um-doped forsterite laser in which short-pulse formation is entirely d ue to the nonlinearity of the laser crystal. Stable pulse trains are g enerated for intracavity pulse energies from 35 to 120 nJ. Pulses less than 100 fs in duration are obtained over the range of 1.23-1.28 mum, with a maximum average output power of 700 mW for 9 W of pump power.