Author(s): Benjamin Holt, Alex Gibb, MicahLaing
Mentor(s): York Young
Institution UVU
Research performed in this lab focuses on developing an optical system capable of generating tunable longwave infrared light for early detection of disease-indicative molecules within human tissue. The current focus of this system consists of a student-constructed Nd:YVO4 laser which must ultimately provide between seven and eight watts of continuous-wave optical power at a wavelength of 1064 nm. Once Q-switched (operated in pulsed mode), this laser will function as the optical pump for a BaGa4Se7 optical parametric oscillator, the key subsystem responsible for LWIR light generation. Building on a 3.5-watt laser presented at UCUR in 2024, this work describes refinements of the 808 nm diode laser pump configuration and adjustments to the Nd:YVO4 crystal location in the resonator cavity. The optimization yielded a substantial increase in output power, reaching 6.5 watts. Also discussed are details of higher-order transverse mode onset and the strategies used to support single-mode (TEM₀₀) operation while delivering required output power.