Book excerpt: This volume represents the most complete, up-to-date compilation of wavelengths of lasers in all media. Divided by type - solid, liquid, and gas - and listed in order of increasing wavelength, Handbook of Laser Wavelengths includes: crystalline paramagnetic ion lasers glass lasers color center lasers semiconductor lasers polymer lasers liquid and solid-state dye lasers rare earth liquid lasers neutral atom, ion, and molecular gas lasers extreme ultraviolet and soft X-ray lasers free electron lasers nuclear-pumped lasers lasers in nature lasers without inversion Brief descriptions of each type of laser are presented, followed by tables listing the laser wavelength, lasing element or medium, host, transition, and primary literature citations. A special section on commercial lasers is an added featured. Handbook of Laser Wavelengths singularly serves as the essential reference for scientists and engineers searching for laser sources for specific applications as well as a survey of the developments that have occurred since the advent of the laser.