Laser power beaming applications and technology

Robert J. Burke; Ralph A. Cover; Mark S. Curtin; R. Dinius; Michael C. Lampel

doi:10.1117/12.174195

1 May 1994 Laser power beaming applications and technology

Robert J. Burke, Ralph A. Cover, Mark S. Curtin, R. Dinius, Michael C. Lampel

Proceedings Volume 2121, Laser Power Beaming; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.174195
Event: OE/LASE '94, 1994, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

Beaming laser energy to spacecraft has important economic potential. It promises significant reduction in the cost of access to space, for commercial and government missions. While the potential payoff is attractive, existing technologies perform the same missions and the keys to market penetration for power beaming are a competitive cost and a schedule consistent with customers' plans. Rocketdyne is considering these questions in the context of a commercial enterprise -- thus, evaluation of the requirements must be done based on market assessments and recognition that significant private funding will be involved. It is in the context of top level business considerations that the technology requirements are being assessed and the program being designed. These considerations result in the essential elements of the development program. Since the free electron laser is regarded as the `long pole in the tent,' this paper summarizes Rocketdyne's approach for a timely, cost-effective program to demonstrate an FEL capable of supporting an initial operating capability.

Citation Download Citation

Robert J. Burke, Ralph A. Cover, Mark S. Curtin, R. Dinius, and Michael C. Lampel "Laser power beaming applications and technology", Proc. SPIE 2121, Laser Power Beaming, (1 May 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.174195

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