The segmented hollow cathode discharge: a pumping source for UV metal ion lasers

We have investigated the operation of a high-voltage segmented hollow cathode discharge which is an efficient pumping source for ultraviolet metal ion lasers. We present the photographically recorded visual appearance of the discharge and the spatial distribution of the ionization source obtained from Monte Carlo simulation of the electrons' motion. Both results show that the high voltage of the segmented hollow cathode discharge and the curved cathode surfaces result in a strong focusing of the fast electrons even at the relatively high operating pressure.