Launching of microsatellites using ground-based high-power pulsed lasers (Plenary Paper)

Victor H. Hasson; Franklin B. Mead Jr.; C. William Larson; Hsian Pei Chou

doi:10.1117/12.548428

20 September 2004 Launching of microsatellites using ground-based high-power pulsed lasers (Plenary Paper)

Victor H. Hasson, Franklin B. Mead Jr., C. William Larson, Hsian Pei Chou

Proceedings Volume 5448, High-Power Laser Ablation V; (2004) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.548428
Event: High-Power Laser Ablation, 2004, Taos, New Mexico, United States

Abstract

This paper reviews the basic concepts of laser propulsion and summarizes work done to date using a 10 kW device. The paper describes a candidate megawatt class CO₂ laser system which can be scaled relatively near-term to multi-megawatt power levels using demonstrated technology. Such a system would potentially be capable of launching micro-satellites into low earth orbits (LEO) at relatively low cost. Our projections indicate that payloads of about 1kg/megawatt are achievable. The long wavelength of a CO₂ laser will require the use of a large aperture telescope and/or large effective beam capture area for the lift vehicle. We believe that these limitations, not withstanding, rep-pulsed CO₂ in a blow-down configuration lasting 200-300 seconds could achieve the desired propulsion objectives. The laser would use a helium-free, nitrogen/carbon dioxide mixture to provide a very cost effective fuel.

Citation Download Citation

Victor H. Hasson, Franklin B. Mead Jr., C. William Larson, and Hsian Pei Chou "Launching of microsatellites using ground-based high-power pulsed lasers (Plenary Paper)", Proc. SPIE 5448, High-Power Laser Ablation V, (20 September 2004); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.548428

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