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Modular Laser Launch Systems

Posted by michael on from the future's-so-bright-you-gotta-wear-shades dept.

BerntB writes "I don't think Jordin Kare's NIAC article has been covered? It's about using new laser tech to build modular laser launch systems. The modular nature makes it easier to test and build. The only other launch ideas as cool are the Orion Project and the space elevator."

1 of 152 comments (clear)

  1. Riding the Highways of Light by s_p_oneil · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Here's a similar, but more interesting article: http://science.nasa.gov/newhome/headlines/prop16ap r99%5F1.htm

    Now that's cool. ;-) A flying saucer that flies straight up by creating a vacuum above it that literally sucks it upward. Plus, it uses no propellant at all, which means significantly less weight to lift.

    Quote:
    "You could go halfway around the world in 45 minutes, or from the Earth to the Moon in about 5-1/2 hours."

    If NASA wants to build a base on the moon, they need something similar to this. Even if technical problems make it difficult to lift people this way (i.e. excessive heat, microwave radiation, or G-forces), it sounds perfect for lifting heavy cargo and supplies into orbit or to the moon.

    Of course, I like the candle-based rocket fuel as well:
    http://science.nasa.gov/headlines/y2003/29j an%5Fen virorocket.htm