Demonstration of Self-Pulsing Instability and Transitions to Chaos in Single-Mode and Multimode Homogeneously Broadened Raman Laser

Single-mode and multimode self-pulsing instability leading to chaos is reported in the 12.8-µm emission from a homogeneously broadened NH3 laser, near resonantly pumped by CO2 laser radiation. Occurrence of instabilities on two independent emitting transitions over a wide range of operating conditions, including those for optimum lasing, indicate that this behavior is general for near resonantly enhanced two-photon Raman systems of this type. © 1985 The American Physical Society.