Physics of a ballistic missile defense: The chemical laser boost-phase defense
Journal Article
·
· Am. J. Phys.; (United States)
The basic physics involved in proposals to use a chemical laser based on satellites for a boost-phase defense are investigated. After a brief consideration of simple physical conditions for the defense, a calculation of an equation for the number of satellites needed for the defense is made along with some typical values of this for possible future conditions for the defense. Basic energy and power requirements for the defense are determined. A summary is made of probable minimum conditions that must be achieved for laser power, targeting accuracy, numbers of satellites, and total sources of power needed.
- Research Organization:
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, The University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa 52242
- OSTI ID:
- 5532640
- Journal Information:
- Am. J. Phys.; (United States), Vol. 56:1
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Diode Pumped Alkaline Laser System: A High Powered, Low SWaP Directed Energy Option for Ballistic Missile Defense High-Level Summary - April 2017
X-ray lasers: strategic problems and potential as an in-orbit exoatmospheric ballistic missile defense system
Cost of space-based laser ballistic missile defense
Technical Report
·
Fri Apr 28 00:00:00 EDT 2017
·
OSTI ID:5532640
X-ray lasers: strategic problems and potential as an in-orbit exoatmospheric ballistic missile defense system
Thesis/Dissertation
·
Wed Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1986
·
OSTI ID:5532640
Cost of space-based laser ballistic missile defense
Journal Article
·
Fri Mar 21 00:00:00 EST 1986
· Science (Washington, D.C.); (United States)
·
OSTI ID:5532640