Solid state laser

An optically pumped laser comprising:

• (a) solid-state component means for generating laser light along an optical path, said solid-state component means including solid-state optical pumping means for generating optical pumping radiation at a preseIected wavelength, and a lasant member comprising a lasant material for receiving said radiation from said optical pumping means and emitting laser light;
• (b) a housing comprising an input end, an output end, and an end plug, said end plug being adapted to be received in said input end of said support housing, and said output end having an opening therein for allowing laser light to be transmitted therethrough;
• and
• (c) a generally trough shaped support structure extending along said optical path for insertion into said housing and for supporting and housing said solid-state component means, said trough shaped support structure comprising a pumping means-support portion for supporting said optical pumping means and a lasant member support portion for supporting said lasant member, said pumping means-support portion defining a pumping means-receiving indentation in said support structure for securely housing and receiving said optical pumping means and said lasant member support portion defining a lasant member-receiving indentation in said support structure for securely housing and receiving said lasant member.