Asymmetric unstable traveling-wave resonators

Experimental data pertaining to the intracavity propagation characteristics, the mode volume dissimilarity, and the fractional output coupling Characteristics associated with the oppositely traveling waves in CO
2
asymmetric unstable ring resonators are reported. Equivalence relations are derived, extending Siegman's unstable resonator analysis to encompass asymmetric traveling-wave geometries. Optical feedback techniques to suppress the oscillation associated with one of the traveling waves are demonstrated to be an effective means of achieving unidirectional ring laser operation.