Antares Phase two

Definition of a large CO/sub 2/ laser system that would fit into the Antares facility was undertaken. Described here are the five amplifier cross sections that were studied, seven target systems, focusability and optic quality, and the crosstalk that occurs in multiplexed amplifiers. Eight amplifier system options are described: three are 400 kJ, five are 200 kJ, and one of each of these is multiplexed. A cost analysis is presented as an aid in comparing the options, and the current Antares design and a design-modification are reviewed. Two novel features have led to 400-kJ options that fit into the Antares facility. The first is the concept of a saturated-two-pass amplifier wherein substantial energy is picked up on the first pass and full benefit of fast gain recovery is utilized on the second pass. This feature leads to a smaller, more efficient amplifier. The second feature, the extensive use of solid dielectric insulation in the discharge chamber, also leads to size reduction and cost saving