A high pulse energy, side pumped laser is provided. The laser has an
optical cavity formed between a first and a second reflective surface. A
lasing medium is located within the cavity along its optical axis. A
plurality of diode bars are provided in optical communication with the
lasing medium preferably a lasing rod. The diode bars supply
electromagnetic radiation to the lasing rod. The diode bars are
configured about the lasing rod so that electromagnetic radiation from
the diodes bars propagates through the lasing rod on a plurality of
substantially nonintersecting paths. Since the lasing rod is side pumped,
the substantially nonintersecting paths traverse the lasing rod
substantially perpendicular to the direction of propagation of energy in
the laser cavity.