Laser beam divergence utilizing a lateral shearing interferometer.

An analysis of the lateral shearing interferometer is given for laser beams. The results enable a simple determination of the local radius of curvature of the wavefront. In addition, the presence of phase distortion in the beam may be ascertained.

Spectral enhancement of near uv xenon flashlamps.

The addition of certain elements to xenon flashlamps can result in a factor of 2-3 enhancement of the emitted energy in the 2500-3000-A spectral range. The degree of enhancement is dependent on the dopant and discharge current.