Output pulse termination of a self-sustained excimer laser

Theoretical predictions of the nature of the premature termination of the laser output of a long-pulse discharge-pumped rare-gas-halide laser are tested on a large scale x-ray preionized XeCl system. Results are presented which support the theory that the termination is caused by local depletion of the halogen donor molecule leading to discharge instabilities. Predictions of methods of extending the laser output pulse duration have been made and experimentally demonstrated.