Lasers like that are usually low to medium ir which are not reflected by normal mirrors
Incorrect. Only second-surface mirrors absorb mid-IR. Virtually all metals reflect most IR.
Can it pop a balloon?
Hehe. I laughed at the warning sign on the side: "Do not look into (opening?)"
I'm guessing at 10kW, your eyes would be the least of your worries if that thing is pointed at you =D
Correct me if I am wrong but maybe the reason for the longer wavelength is better penetration through atmosphereic conditions. Doesn't longer WL = better penetration?
Rotisserie chicken done in 2.2s!
Wouldn't it be cool if this laser was in the visible light spectrum? I know its not for a reason but it would be intense. Like a scene from your favorite syfy flick. Caltech put a sodium laser on of their telescope to aid in corrective optics, that must be an impressive sight.
Correct me if I am wrong but maybe the reason for the longer wavelength is better penetration through atmosphereic conditions. Doesn't longer WL = better penetration?