Multiple-beam apparatus for rapid large-spot laser-damage measurements

Damage tests are necessary to guide material selection and component design and to furnish quality control during assembly of large lasers. Relatively few samples can be characterized since tests are routinely performed using oscillator/amplifier systems of low repetition rate as the laser source. The output of such lasers is only approximately predictable, and many firings may be required to evaluate a sample. Each firing must be individually monitored, resulting in masses of data which are tedious to reduce.