Optically-pumped multiple-quantum well active region with improved distribution of optical pumping power

An optically-pumped (OP) multiple quantum well (MQW) active region for use in an optical cavity of an optically-pumped vertical-cavity surface-emitting laser (OP VCSEL) for generating laser light at a lasing wavelength, the OP VCSEL being adapted to receive pump light at a first end of the optical cavity, the active region comprising:

• (a) a plurality of quantum well (QW) groups equally spaced within the active region to correspond in position with antinodes of a standing wave of the lasing wavelength laser radiation that exists in the optical cavity during operation of the OP VCSEL, the plurality of QW groups comprising a first QW group closest to the first end of the optical cavity and a last QW group farthest from the first end of the optical cavity;
• (b) a plurality of equally thick intermediate absorbing layers disposed between adjacent QW groups of the plurality of QW groups;
• (c) a last absorbing layer disposed adjacent to the side of the last QW group farthest from the first end of the optical cavity;
• and
• (d) a first absorbing layer disposed adjacent to the side of the first QW group closest to the first end of the optical cavity, wherein the first absorbing layer has a thickness at least two times smaller than that of the intermediate absorbing layers.