Investigation of Laser Propulsion. Volume 2
Abstract
The use of large ground based lasers to radiate power into a rocket engine allows arbitrary choice of propellant and specific impulse. The case of launch of one ton payload from near ground to geosynchronous transfer ellipse appears to be feasible using stacked carbon dioxide repetitive pulse lasers. Atmospheric propagation is enhanced by bleaching out CO2 absorption and using phase correction of the thermal blooming generated we expect that 1 microradian beam spreading can be achieved. The use of pulsed lasers permits an engine based on the laser detonation wave, in which laser energy is efficiently absorbed by inverse Bremsstrhlung in the propellant, which then expands out of the engine and provides thrust. Continuous use costs in the order of $20/lb to GEO are anticipated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1977
- Accession Number
- ADA056748
Entities
People
- D. A. Reilly
- D. H. Douglas-hamilton
- G. Weyl
- H. Legner
- P. K. Chapman