Introduction to Lasers (3 units). The fundamental physical processes and introduction of engineering relevant to lasers, and explore a variety of specific laser systems. Topics to be covered include, optical laser gain and oscillation, resonators, numerical methods for beam propagation, and Q switching, and laser applications. P, OPTI 511R or similar.

Instructor:
Carl Maes
Room: 403A Meinel Building,
Phone: 626-8837
Email: carl.maes@optics.arizona.edu

Office Hours: Open door policy and may also schedule appointment

Grading Criteria

• Homework 30%
• Project 20%
• Midterm exam 20%
• Final exam 30%

• Written report and presentation on a specific laser system, laser application or engineering issue, NIF, stabilization and LIGO, femtosecond frequency combs, natural MASERS and LASERS, etc.
• OPTI 541 students: 15+ minute talk presented not later than December 6, 2011 and 5+ page written report distributed to the class not later than December 1, 2011. OPTI 441 students will do a 10+ minute talk and 3+ page report.
• Presentation & paper should be appropriately cited and be based on at least 3 different references.
• Peer review, feedback, questions, and/or discussion is expected and will be worth 10% of the project grade.
• Submission of project proposal is due September 29, 2011.
• Submission of draft outline is due November 3, 2011.
• Presentations will be given Lessons 22 – 30.