Swept gain superfluorescent operation is reported in a mode-locked laser. We quantitatively compare theoretical predictions and experimental results for the laser output, which show drastically reduced pulse lengths together with increased bandwidth corresponding to the generation of near-π pulses. The attainment of this operating mode depends on the intracavity power level and the relevant homogeneous lifetimes. The effect has been observed for several mode-locked argon laser lines.

• Received 26 April 1989

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevA.40.4789