Laser light sources for space-based gravitational wave detectors Original Research Article

This contribution summarizes recent progress in the development of diode-pumped Nd:YAG lasers suited for applications in laser-based metrology. Applying an unstable resonator design to a monolithic ring laser, 2 W single-frequency output power in a diffraction-limited beam is generated. Injection locking was used to increase the available power even further. Finally, techniques to improve the free-running lasers intensity and frequency stability are demonstrated. Low intensity noise is accomplished by application of an electronic feedback loop. Low frequency noise is achieved by stabilization onto a hyperfine transition of molecular iodine.