Abstract
This paper presents a novel type of optically pumped molecular laser and its output propertieswhich were measured for several operational parameters. This optically side-pumped laser emits a sub-millimeter wave and features a lateral incidence of the infrared pump light. The dimension of the fabricated laser is 640×190 ×185 mm3 and is considerably compact compared to conventional, optically pumped molecular lasers. The optically side-pumped laser, which operates on a CH3OH 119μm line pumped with CO2 9P (36), emitted a power of 39 μW at a pump power of 13 W. Gain profiles, absorption efficiency and the reflection loss of pump light in the new laser are theoretically discussed and compared with those of the conventional end-pumped type.
