Abstract

An observation of self-mode locking (SML) in a longitudinal-discharge copper vapor laser was previously reported by Fahlen.¹ Because of the transient nature of the SML in that laser system, it is difficult to understand the physical mechanism and the operating conditions under which individual longitudinal modes were self-locked. We have observed an SML phenomenon in a transverse-discharge copper-vapor laser when the operating conditions satisfy the requirements for SML suggested by Smith.² Specifically, the self-locking was observed in the following situations: (1) the laser oscillation is confined to a single transverse mode, and (2) the laser is operated near threshold.

© 1986 Optical Society of America