Nonlinear dynamics in a laser with a negative delayed feedback

Abstract Asymptotic solutions of nonlinear differential-difference equations describing the lasing dynamics with a negative feedback are obtained. Periodic lasing regimes with a complex relaxational structure are shown to be possible in such lasers. The phenomenon of multistability, i.e., the co-existence of a great number of structurally different and structurally similar attractors, is analytically described. Asymptotic characteristics of lasing regimes (pulse shape and radiation pulsation frequency) are found and the domains in the parameter space and the initial conditions for their realization are determined for all types of solution. The chaotic dynamics following the sequence of period-doubling bifurcations is also numerically determined.