Feasibility of a 30-Meter Space Based Laser Transmitter
Abstract
This report presents the results of Itek Corporation's program effort conducted under contract NAS 3-19400 for the NASA Lewis Research Center. The study investigated the application of large expandable mirror structures in future space missions to establish the feasibility and define the potential of high-power laser systems for such applications as propulsion and power transmission. Application of these concepts requires a 30-meter diameter, diffraction limited mirror for transmission of the laser energy. Three concepts for the transmitter are pre- sented. These concepts include consideration of continuous as well as segmented mirror surfaces and the major stow-deployment categories of inflatable, variable geometry and assembled- in-space structures. The mirror surface for each concept would be actively monitored and controlled to maintain diffraction limited performance at 10.6 microns during operation. The pro- posed mirror configurations are based on existing aerospace state-of-the-art technology. The assembled-in-space concept appears to be the most feasible, at this time. Given further development effort, the inflatable and variable geometry concepts could result in a practical laser- transmitter assembly.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 1975
- Accession Number
- ADA344966
Entities
People
- G. E. Lenertz
- R. R. Berggren