Free-electron lasers (original) (raw)

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Abstract

The evolution and basic principles of free-electron lasers are described together with their many applications. Free-electron lasers are tunable potentially powerful sources of coherent radiation over a broad range of wavelengths from the FIR to FUV regions of the spectrum. Free-electron lasers are uniquely suitable for operation at very high average power levels, making them attractive for military applications such as strategic defense. It is noted that free-electron lasers are expensive, especially in small sizes.

Publication:

Science

Pub Date:

March 1988

DOI:

10.1126/science.239.4844.1115

Bibcode:

1988Sci...239.1115B

Keywords: