A laser-powered flight transportation systemLaser energy transmitted from a solar-power satellite via a set of relay satellites is used to power a cruising air transport; i.e., a laser-powered airplane. The result is a nearly fuelless pollution-free flight transportation system which is cost competitive with the fuel-conservative airplane of the future. The major components of this flight system include a laser-power satellite, relay satellites, laser-powered turbofans, and a conventional airframe. The relay satellites are orbiting optical systems which intercept the beam from a power satellite and refocus and redirect the beam to its next target.
Document ID
19780065872
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Hertzberg, A. (Washington Univ. Seattle, WA, United States)
Sun, K. C. (Washington, University Seattle, Wash., United States)
Jones, W. S. (Lockheed Missiles and Space Co., Inc. Palo Alto, Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
August 1, 1978
Subject Category
Aircraft Design, Testing And Performance
Report/Patent Number
AIAA PAPER 78-1484
Meeting Information
Meeting: Aircraft Systems and Technology Conference
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Start Date: August 21, 1978
End Date: August 23, 1978
Sponsors: American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics