Compact calibration and testing system for high power lasers and optics

Abstract

A compact high power laser calibration and testing system includes an active intracavity laser system that amplifies the laser power by recycling photons through a thin disk gain medium that is positioned between two or more highly reflective mirrors. The system is configured for calibration and testing of the high power lasers and optics that can be inserted into or positioned at the end of the intracavity. In another embodiment, the system is configured for characterization of high power laser beam propagation in operation-relevant atmospheres. The intracavity high power laser beam is configured to simulate high power laser beams with orders-of-magnitude reduced size, weight and operation power for calibrating laser powers and testing optical components. In applications that require an extra small footing or high portability, thermal management systems are configured to absorb large amounts of heat from the system for fixed time durations with the use of exchangeable cartridges made of phase change materials. The portability of the invention can be further increased and the system footing can be decreased by powering the system with disposable or rechargeable battery cartridges that can be rapidly replaced.