Innovative Energy conversion Schemes for Space Based Strategic Defense Systems
Abstract
A major objective of the Strategic Defense Initiative research program is the development of technologies capable of destroying fleets of ICBM's in the boost phase of their mission by directed energy weapons, perhaps based on a constellation of orbiting satellites or Battle Stations. A strategic defense system may therefore be viewed as a series of energy conversion steps terminating in the deposition of a "lethal" energy flux on ballistic targets above the sensible atmosphere, together with an information-handling system for tracking, aiming and finding at these targets. Although these are stringent requirements, a number of potentially effective strategic defense concepts are under evaluation employing fleets of satellites at 200-1000 km altitudes in near-polar orbits. Baseline power requirements for these satellites which have been cited are continuous onboard power at the 10 kW level, and intermittent power at the 10-1000 MW level for perhaps tens of seconds when directed energy devices are energized. Despite their high power requirements, chemical energy sources for directed energy bursts appear feasible because the durations are short. But the more prosaic 100 kW level housekeeping power cannot be generated chemically for durations longer than a few days without unacceptably large mass to orbit, or unless the fuel is regenerated by an external energy source.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1988
- Accession Number
- ADA338958
Entities
People
- Martin I. Hoffert
Organizations
- New York University