Variable Metal Mesh Coupler for Far Infrared Lasers

In a far infrared molecular laser the traditional pierced output mirror has been replaced by an infrared interference filter, consisting of two metal mesh reflector grids. By adjusting the spacing between the two parallel grids, the reflectance of the filter can be varied. Theory and experiment of this variable reflector are presented. It allows convenient optimization of the coupling conditions of a laser for maximum power output. In contrast to hole coupling, the interference filter provides uniform coupling over the entire cross section of the reflector. This reduces the diffraction losses and improves the angular distribution of the output beam. The variable reflector has also been used to determine the linear gain of the laser.