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Theoretical studies of solar pumped lasersOne concept for collecting solar energy is to use large solar collectors and then use lasers as energy converters whose output beams act as transmission lines to deliver the energy to a destination. The efficiency of the process would be improved if the conversion could be done directly using solar pumped lasers, and the possibility of making such lasers is studied. There are many applications for such lasers, and these are examined. By including the applications first, the requirements for the lasers will be more evident. They are especially applicable to the Space program, and include cases where no other methods of delivering power seem possible. Using the lasers for conveying information and surveillance is also discussed. Many difficulties confront the designer of an efficient system for power conversion. These involve the nature of the solar spectrum, the method of absorbing the energy, the transfer of power into laser beams, and finally, the far field patterns of the beams. The requirements of the lasers are discussed. Specific laser configurations are discussed. The thrust is into gas laser systems, because for space applications, the laser could be large, and also the medium would be uniform and not subject to thermal stresses. Dye and solid lasers are treated briefly. For gas lasers, a chart of the various possibilities is shown, and the various families of gas lasers divided according to the mechanisms of absorbing solar radiation and of lasing. Several specific models are analyzed and evaluated. Overall conclusions for the program are summarized, and the performances of the lasers related to the requirements of various applications.
Document ID
19900016992
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Contractor Report (CR)
Authors
Harries, Wynford L.
(Old Dominion Univ. Norfolk, VA, United States)
Date Acquired
September 6, 2013
Publication Date
May 1, 1990
Subject Category
Lasers And Masers
Report/Patent Number
NASA-CR-186712
NAS 1.26:186712
ODU-TR-PTR-90-2
Report Number: NASA-CR-186712
Report Number: NAS 1.26:186712
Report Number: ODU-TR-PTR-90-2
Accession Number
90N26308
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NSG-1568
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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