초록 ▼

A reflector array is disclosed herein that provides a controlled region or regions of plasma breakdowns from a laser beam produced at a remotely-based laser source. The plasma may be applied to produce thrust to propel a spacecraft, or to diagnose a laser beam, or to produce shockwaves. The spacecra

A reflector array is disclosed herein that provides a controlled region or regions of plasma breakdowns from a laser beam produced at a remotely-based laser source. The plasma may be applied to produce thrust to propel a spacecraft, or to diagnose a laser beam, or to produce shockwaves. The spacecraft propulsion system comprises a reflector array attached to the vehicle. The reflector array comprises a plurality of reflectors spaced apart on a reflective surface, with each reflector acting as an independent focusing mirror. The reflectors are spaced closely together to form a continuous or partially-continuous surface. The reflector array may be formed from a sheet of reflective material, such as copper or aluminum. In operation, a beam of electromagnetic energy, such as a laser beam, is directed at the reflectors which focus the reflected electromagnetic energy at a plurality of regions off the surface. The energy concentrated in the focal region causes a breakdown of the air or other fluid in the focal region, creating a plasma. Electromagnetic energy is absorbed in the plasma and it grows in volume, compressing and heating the adjacent fluid thereby providing thrust. Laser pulses may be applied repetitively. After each such thrust pulse, fresh air can be introduced next to the surface either laterally, or through a perforated surface. If air or some other gas or vapor is supplied, for example from a tank carried on board a vehicle, this invention may also be used to provide thrust in a vacuum environment.

대표청구항 ▼

A propulsion system for providing thrust to a vehicle using a laser beam directed from a remotely-based laser source, said propulsion system comprising: a reflector array attached to the vehicle, said reflector array comprising a top reflective surface including a plurality of reflectors spaced apar

A propulsion system for providing thrust to a vehicle using a laser beam directed from a remotely-based laser source, said propulsion system comprising: a reflector array attached to the vehicle, said reflector array comprising a top reflective surface including a plurality of reflectors spaced apart on the reflective surface, said reflectors comprising a material that is reflective to the laser beam, each of said reflectors having a shape to focus reflected laser energy to a separate focal position in front thereof and off the surface of the reflector.