Photonic Laser Thruster: 100 Times Scaling-Up and Propulsion Demonstration

What is it about?

The Photonic Laser Thruster (PLT) efficiently utilizes photons as propellant and thus promises to enable innovative space endeavors beyond the reach of propellant-based conventional thrusters. The PLT technology promises to play an important role in establishing a subject of growing worldwide public interest: space-based civilization. The article reports 100x scaling-up and propulsion demonstration of PLT first time and establishes its scientific and technological foundation. The present results conclude that innovative PLT applications, such as propellant-free orbit maneuvering and stationkeeping of multiple spacecraft with a single powering platform, are within the reach of existing spacecraft and high-power laser technologies. In addition, the feasibility of PLT-based launchers and landers is discussed.

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