Characterization of frequency conversion crystals for the implementation of a 1-THz bandwidth on the OMEGA laser

Summary form only given.Direct-drive inertial confinement fusion requires high degree of laser-irradiation uniformity on target. This is being accomplished on the OMEGA laser using beam smoothing by spectral dispersion. Realization of this scheme requires a large spectral bandwidth on the laser driver beams, which are generated at the third harmonic (351 nm) of the Nd:glass laser wavelength. This paper reports on the characterization and implementation of the frequency conversion cells. This is accomplished using an off-line experimental station on which each of the three crystals is prealigned to precise orientations. The cell alignment is confirmed on the experimental station by comparison with calculations. The cell is then mounted on the OMEGA system, adjusted for the different ambient temperature, and again checked against predictions.