Light Polarization of a Quasi-isotropic Laser with Optical Feedback

Guy Stephan and Dominique Hugon
Phys. Rev. Lett. 55, 703 – Published 12 August 1985
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Abstract

The light of a quasi-isotropic, single-mode gas laser is linearly polarized for a line Ja=1Jb=2. However, the azimuth of polarization can vary inside the line. Among the many different effects which cause these variations, we describe the role played by the detector optical feedback. We show experimentally that its amplitude and phase can be varied in a controlled manner in order to obtain abrupt switches between two perpendicular polarization states. Polarization bistability and hysteresis effects can then be commanded and studied from the outside of the laser.

  • Received 23 May 1985

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.55.703

©1985 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

Guy Stephan and Dominique Hugon

  • Laboratoire de Spectroscopie, Universit´e de Rennes, F-35042 Rennes, France

Comments & Replies

Goldenfeld and Halley Respond

Nigel Goldenfeld and J. W. Halley
Phys. Rev. Lett. 56, 1315 (1986)

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Vol. 55, Iss. 7 — 12 August 1985

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