An electrostatic printer employing a source of coherent electromagnetic radiation in conjunction with electro-optical equipment for spatially modulating and focusing the radiation to a printing medium disposed between a first electrode transparent to the radiation and a second electrode. A focal point of radiation is established adjacent the printing medium, and the energy present there interacts with gas molecules to create ions, which are attracted to the medium by an electric field established between the electrodes. Manipulation of this point source of charge by electro-optical methods in response to control signals facilitates formation of a charge image on the medium, which may then be developed into a final print.
