Accession Number:

ADA151279

Title:

High Energy Lasers: A Primer on Directed Energy Weapons for Space Use.

Descriptive Note:

Master's thesis,

Corporate Author:

NAVAL POSTGRADUATE SCHOOL MONTEREY CA

Personal Author(s):

• Ziska,R. F.

Report Date:

1984-09-01

Pagination or Media Count:

86.0

Abstract:

The rapid and inevitable commercialization and exploitation of space, which is now gaining increased momentum as the Space Shuttle program settles into a regular monthly schedule, is inescapably increasing our dependence on space-based systems of all kinds. These systems have become vital national interests, the defense of which must be considered whenever realistic war-time scenarios are developed. Consequently, the introduction of weapons into the space environment is an important option, the potential of which must be thoroughly investigated so as not to unwittingly jeopardize critical national assets and ultimately national defense. This thesis is intended to be a semi-technical primer on directed energy laser weapons for utilization in the space environment. The rationale for the selection of space-based laser weapon systems is examined. Additionally, the basic concepts, components, and operations of three of the most promising methods for the generation of high-power laser energy in space are presented. Keywords include High energy lasers for Space use.

Descriptors:

• *LASER WEAPONS
• *DIRECTED ENERGY WEAPONS
• *SPACE WEAPONS
• HIGH POWER
• THESES
• HIGH ENERGY
• NATIONAL DEFENSE
• SPACE BASED

Subject Categories:

• Lasers and Masers

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE