Efficient $Ar-N_2$ laser pumped by a high-current ion beam

An experiment is described and the first results are presented of an investigation of proton pumping of a gas laser. Laser action was studied at $\lambda=357,7$ nm in the $2^+$ system of nitrogen in an $Ar-N_2$ mixture pumped by a high-current proton beam. The lasing efficiency with respect to the total energy of the injected ion beam was 1.6-2 procent. The optimal pressure and gas mixture composition were determined.