Laser induced damage threshold (LIDT) denotes the maximum laser fluence an optical component can withstand with an acceptable amount of risk.

Many lasers are assumed to have a Gaussian profile, and understanding Gaussian beam propagation is crucial for predicting real-world performance of lasers.

Understanding the most common laser sources, modes of operation, and gain media provides the context for selecting the proper laser for your specific application.

Watch this video to learn all about lasers, what makes them special compared to other light sources, and how they impact our lives

Converting a Gaussian laser beam profile into a flat top beam profile can have numerous benefits including minimized wasted energy and increased feature accuracy.

There are several metrics used to describe the quality of a laser beam including the M2 factor, the beam parameter product, and power in the bucket

The length of a laser resonator determines the laser’s resonator modes, or the electric field distributions that cause a standing wave in the cavity.

Many challenges can arise when aligning a laser beam; knowing specific tips and tricks can help simplify the process. Learn more at Edmund Optics.

A new generation of compact, cost-effective ultraviolet (UV) lasers is allowing more applications to benefit from the increased precision of UV wavelengths.

The polarization state of a laser source is important for many different applications.

Fluorescence imaging systems are composed of three major components, an illumination source, a photo-activated fluorophore sample, and detector.

Join Chris Williams as he briefly explains the basics of how to align a laser system onto a target.

Several of the most interesting trends in optics and photonics of 2021 were the landing of the Perseverance Rover on Mars, Stemmed Mirrors, minimizing thermal lensing in ultrafast laser systems, and developments in ultraviolet lasers.

Learn the key parameters that must be considered to ensure you laser application is successful. Common terminology will be established for these parameters.

Testing laser induced damage threshold (LIDT) is not standardized, so understanding how your optics were tested is critical for predicting performance.

Metrology is critical for ensuring that optical components consistently meet their desired specifications, especially in laser applications.

Understanding the polarization of laser light is critical for many applications, as polarization impacts reflectance, focusing the beam, and other key behaviors.

Optical coatings are composed of thin-film layers used to enhance transmission or reflection properties within an optical system.

When determining which laser to use for your application, consider the following specifications: wavelength, coherence length, beam divergence, and Rayleigh range.

Join our discussion around laser damage testing in the third episode of our LIGHT TALKS series.

Learn about trends in laser applications including increasing powers and decreasing pulse durations in this conversation with Kasia Sieluzycka and Nick Smith.

From tattoo removal to diagnosing cancer, lasers can transform our lives in countless ways. Join our conversation about laser in skin care and diagnostics.

The Laser Optics Lab video series discusses laser optics concepts including specifications, coating technologies, product types, and more

The Laser Optics Lab video series discusses laser optics concepts including specifications, coating technologies, product types, and more

Back reflections are created when some or part of your beam are reflected back to the source.

Learn how to assemble, align, and use a Mach-Zehnder Interferometer completely out of off-the-shelf products from Edmund Optics in this detailed guide.