STABLE PLATFORM STRUCTURE FOR LASER OPTICS

摘要

The construction of a stable platform for the optics in a convective gas laser system is disclosed. The laser which is excited with an electric discharge and has a relatively long optical pathlength is fitted into a package substantially shorter than the optical path with folding mirrors fixed to two optical platform assemblies. An optical platform housing forms a gas tight enclosure around each optical platform assembly. A rigid optics truss ties the platform assemblies into a single optical structure which is insensitive to temperature variation, resists mechanical distortion and is vibrationally insulated from the rest of the laser system and ground. The support for the optical structure as well as the construction details of the optical platform assemblies are discussed. The techniques used to allow the optical platform to penetrate the platform housing while maintaining a gas tight seal, providing electrical isolation to the internal optical bench, and avoiding the transfer of vibrations to the platform are also discussed.