Spectra-Physics of Mountain View, Calif., and Jenoptik Laser, Optik, Systeme GmbH of Jena, Germany, have formed an alliance to develop and introduce thin-disk lasers that have the potential to expedite materials processing applications and to serve as cost-effective tools for scientific research. As part of the long-term collaboration, Jenoptik will contribute green, 5-W and air-cooled 8-W Q-switched thin-disk laser technology to Spectra-Physics' line of solid-state lasers, and will gain access to Spectra-Physics' global distribution and service infrastructure.