Multi-disk: concept and realisation of a collinearly pumped multiple thin disk active medium

We analyse the concept of collinearly pumped active medium consisting of multiple thin disks (multi-disk configuration). The multiple disk design is attractive for fabrication of mid- and high-output power laser systems with a good spatial beam quality and high optical efficiency. Two approaches for realisation such multi-disk active elements are considered. Preliminary lasing experiments and numerical calculations for temperature distribution inside the lasing medium are presented. (lasers)