An experimental approach is proposed for the near‐term demonstration of space‐borne laser propulsion. A feasibility study at the ZARM Drop Tower Bremen is planned. The facility provides microgravity conditions within a drop capsule for ∼9 seconds. An excimer laser is used for energy beaming operating at a wavelength of 248 nm with max. 500 mJ pulse energy and a repetition rate of 250 Hz. Within the drop capsule, free flights of a lightcraft are intended to be conducted in air as well as under vacuum conditions. Different propellants are reviewed regarding their features for propulsion with a UV laser. The scalability of previous ground‐based flight experiments is discussed with respect to microgravity conditions and moderate pulse energies. Space logistic and sample return missions are discussed as possible applications.


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    Title :

    Spaceborne Lightcraft Applications—an Experimental Approach



    Conference:

    BEAMED ENERGY PROPULSION: Fifth International Symposium on Beamed Energy Propulsion ; 2007 ; Kailua‐Kona (Hawaii)


    Published in:

    AIP Conference Proceedings ; 997 , 1 ; 295-303


    Publication date :

    2008-04-28


    Size :

    9 pages





    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English



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