Fifty years of advances in solid-state laser materials

The year 2010 marks the 50th anniversary of the invention of the first laser device, ruby laser and it is therefore an appropriate time to look back at the developments in the laser field since its inception and to try to map out its milestones. In this presentation, consideration will be given only to the area of solid-state lasers mainly based on metal transition ions (3d configuration) and rare earth ions (4f configuration) used as oscillators or amplifiers.

► Noteworthy developments of metal transition and rare earth ions-doped solid-state laser crystals since 50 years. ► Understanding of optical spectroscopy and laser fundamentals of luminescent ions used as laser ions. ► Choice and improvement of crystal growth techniques. ► Laser-diode-pumped solid state lasers as new sources. ► Polycrystalline ceramic lasers as a new generation of laser materials.