Spectroscopy and stimulated emission of Nd^3+ in an acentric CsY_2F_7 host

The results of preliminary spectroscopic studies of new fluoride single-crystal CsY(2)F(7) that is activated by Nd(3+) ions are given. Direct evidence for the possibility of application of this ordered material as a laser host is given for the first time to our knowledge. Stimulated emission of Nd(3+) ions on the main intermultiplet transition is obtained under both nonselective flash-lamp pumping conditions and continuous Ar ion laser pumping conditions.