Title :
Laser as a tool for space propulsion
Author :
Lebéhot, A. ; Amic, K. ; Lago, V. ; Mazouffre, S. ; Dudeck, M.
Author_Institution :
Lab. d´´Aerothermique, CNRS, Orleans, France
Abstract :
The laser beam is a promising energy source for the development of future types of thrusters for space applications. Different principles of operation have been proposed, but the common feature of these thrusters, and their prominent advantage, is the transportation of energy from outside the spacecraft. Some considerations are presented about a "laser-rocket" type thruster with thrust, specific impulse, and energy yield calculated from experimental results.
Keywords :
aerospace propulsion; ion engines; laser beam applications; space vehicles; laser beam; laser-rocket type thrusters; space propulsion; spacecraft; Gas lasers; Laser beams; Laser theory; Plasma devices; Plasma stability; Plasma transport processes; Plasma waves; Propulsion; Space vehicles; Surface emitting lasers;
Conference_Titel :
Recent Advances in Space Technologies, 2003. RAST '03. International Conference on. Proceedings of
Conference_Location :
Istanbul, Turkey
Print_ISBN :
0-7803-8142-4
DOI :
10.1109/RAST.2003.1303921
