High-efficiency solar-pumped lasers

• Published in: Advances in physics: X Vol. 10; no. 1
• Main Authors: Liang, Dawei, Costa, Hugo, Tibúrcio, Bruno D., Vistas, Cláudia R., Almeida, Joana
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Taylor & Francis Group 31.12.2025
• Subjects: Ce:Nd:YAG; multimode; Nd:YAG; solar tracking error; Solar-pumped laser; TEM00-mode
• ISSN: 2374-6149; 2374-6149
• DOI: 10.1080/23746149.2025.2531056

Solar-pumped lasers are perceived as an innovative convergence of renewable energy and laser technology. Having a long-standing history, they have been the focus of continuous research and development by various teams worldwide since the 1960s. This sustained effort has led to the recognition of solar-pumped lasers as a promising technology for the future, capable of delivering laser radiation in a cost-effective and carbon-free way, and potentially supplanting high-power lasers that rely on electricity in a multitude of applications. This paper delves into several key topics related to this field. It discusses potential applications both on Earth and in space, and traces historical progress of solid-state solar-pumped lasers – particularly those employing Nd:YAG and Ce:Nd:YAG active media, which have been pivotal in improving laser efficiency in both multimode and TEM00-mode operations. The properties of these media are also examined in detail. Furthermore, the significance of multi-thin-rod laser systems is highlighted, as they can help produce multiple high-quality laser beams, mitigate thermal load issues typically associated with solid-state lasers and compensate for solar tracking errors. Not less importantly, this paper also outlines methodologies for analyzing solar laser output power, both theoretically and numerically via simulation tools (Zemax® and LASCAD™ software).