Novel Laser Sources and Applications: Proceedings of a Workshop Held November 12-13, 1993, San Jose, California, USA

Rapid advances in materials, techniques, processes, and applications in laser science and technology necessitate the close communication between laser users and laser manufacturers. The purpose of the workshop was to facilitate the flow of information between laser scientists and laser manufacturers. There were sessions on novel laser sources, physics of laser-matter interactions, and applications of laser-matter processes. Highlights include the performance of the chromium-doped forsterite (Cr:Mg2SiO4)--the first solid state laser based on tetravalent chromium; recent progress in theoretical capability to select optimum lanthanide-host combinations; the extended tunability of mode locked tunable sources to the visible and near-UV spectral regions; and a new type of spatial soliton.