Modal analysis of a self-Fourier laser cavity

Abstract

A modal analysis has been performed on a self-Fourier laser cavity which can be used to phase lock an array of seven individual laser elements. The coupling matrix is determined through calculation of the individual overlap integrals among the elements. This 7 × 7 matrix is then used to determine the eigenmodes (self-replicating normal modes) and eigenvalues (round-trip amplitude reproduction coefficients) of the passive external cavity. These results are compared and contrasted with those obtained using an analogous Talbot cavity.