Absorption fractions have been measured for cannonball targets irradiated by ten beams of the GEKKO XII laser system with 300 and 500 ps pulses of 0. 53 mu m light intensities of 10**1**4-10**1**5 W/cm**2. We note an increase in absorption and a reduced production of hard X-rays and energetic electrons for a decrease in laser wavelength from 1. 05 mu m to 0. 53 mu m. The absorption results are discussed in terms of the effects of target cavity filling and inlet hole closure. Simulations by a 1-D hydrocode are presented and used to qualify these results.