Physics of fusion pumped lasers

A novel concept is described which utilizes a liquified rare gas as both an energy converter and high-density lasing media. The concept allows the advantage of the large mean-free path of high energy fusion neutrons together with a highly-efficient mechanism for volumetric production of 1 MeV electrons which causes ionization and excitation throughout the medium. This scheme coupled together with the high efficiency for light production of liquid excimers may provide the possibilities for a new dimension in high power lasers. (author)