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Systems efficiency and specific mass estimates for direct and indirect solar-pumped closed-cycle high-energy lasers in spaceBased on expected advances in technology, the maximum system efficiency and minimum specific mass have been calculated for closed-cycle CO and CO2 electric-discharge lasers (EDL's) and a direct solar-pumped laser in space. The efficiency calculations take into account losses from excitation gas heating, ducting frictional and turning losses, and the compressor efficiency. The mass calculations include the power source, radiator, compressor, fluids, ducting, laser channel, optics, and heat exchanger for all of the systems; and in addition the power conditioner for the EDL's and a focusing mirror for the solar-pumped laser. The results show the major component masses in each system, show which is the lightest system, and provide the necessary criteria for solar-pumped lasers to be lighter than the EDL's. Finally, the masses are compared with results from other studies for a closed-cycle CO2 gasdynamic laser (GDL) and the proposed microwave satellite solar power station (SSPS).
Document ID
19790032610
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Monson, D. J.
(NASA Ames Research Center Moffett Field, Calif., United States)
Date Acquired
August 9, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1978
Subject Category
Lasers And Masers
Meeting Information
Meeting: Radiation energy conversion in space; Conference
Location: Moffett Field, CA
Start Date: January 26, 1978
End Date: January 28, 1978
Accession Number
79A16623
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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