Laser weapon system and method

A laser weapon system, comprising:

• a chamber configured to direct a post-detonation gas flow between a first mirror and a second mirror;
• and
• an ejectable ammunition cartridge containing a first gas, a second gas, and a ruptureable membrane separating the first gas from the second gas, the cartridge being fluidly connected to the chamber,
• wherein the membrane is disposed substantially centrally within the cartridge between a front tip of the cartridge and a primer of the cartridge disposed opposite the front tip.

A cartridge configured for use with a laser weapon system, comprising:

• a housing;
• a ruptureable membrane disposed within the housing and forming a substantially fluid-tight barrier between at least two different gases disposed within the housing;
• and
• a primer, the primer being configured to ignite at least one of the at least two gases disposed within the housing, wherein the membrane is configured to rupture upon ignition of the at least one of the at least two gases, and combustion of the at least two gases results in emission of a laser beam along an emission axis.