A laser system thermal management system includes a laser gain assembly
and a thermal management assembly. The laser gain assembly includes a
laser gain medium and may include laser pump diodes. The thermal
management system includes a high pressure gas tank connected to an
open-cycle Joule-Thompson refrigerator. Cooled and partially liquefied
gas is introduced into a reservoir. The reservoir may be in good direct
thermal contact with the laser gain assembly or via a closed loop
recirculating fluid heat exchanger. The heat generated by the laser gain
assembly is removed by heat exchange with the cooled gas and condensate
in the reservoir either by direct thermal contact or via the
recirculating heat exchanger loop. Gas evaporating in the reservoir is
vented.