Titanium-doped sapphire, commonly known as Ti:Sapphire, is a highly regarded optically pumped, solid-state laser crystal. Known for its exceptional wavelength tunability, this crystal is capable of tuning across a broad range from 650 nm to 1100 nm, with a peak at 800 nm. This makes it one of the most versatile laser crystals available, capable of covering a wide spectrum of applications.

The short upper-state lifetime of just 3.2 milliseconds contributes to its high saturation power, making it challenging to pump using traditional methods like lamps or argon ion lasers. Instead, frequency-doubled Nd:YAG lasers are typically employed for this purpose. One of the standout features of the Ti:Sapphire laser is its ability to produce ultrashort pulses. Utilizing self-mode-locking technology, it can generate laser pulses with a pulse width as narrow as 6.5 femtoseconds, the shortest pulse width of any laser that can be directly output from the resonant cavity. This capability is invaluable in applications requiring precise and rapid laser pulses. Furthermore, through frequency-doubling technology, the laser beam's wavelength can extend from the blue spectrum to deep ultraviolet, with the potential to produce a 193 nm laser used in advanced lithography machines.

The Ti:Sapphire crystal also boasts a broad absorption pump band and preeminent output efficiency. Its high damage threshold and excellent thermal conductivity make it a robust choice for demanding environments. The material's physical and chemical properties, such as its hexagonal crystal structure and high thermal shock resistance, further enhance its suitability for various high-performance laser applications. With its unique combination of features, Ti:Sapphire remains a critical component in the development of femtosecond lasers, amplifiers, and tunable lasers across a range of scientific and industrial fields.