Defense Intelligence Reference Document Laser Lightcraft Nanosatellites

This Defense Intelligence Reference Document from the Defense Intelligence Agency, dated 1 November 2010, was produced under the Advanced Aerospace Weapon System Applications (AAWSA) Program. It describes nanosatellite technologies and proposes launching nanosats into orbit with laser Lightcraft propulsion. It also covers a weapon mission selection study and multi-megawatt laser options. The author recommends that the Department of Defense and NASA bring Lightcraft R&D back to the United States and restart the X-50LR flight demonstration program.

UNCLASSIFIED/ ,'Pett err1e1111t ~:!II!! 8HLV
Figure 2. AFRL Test Vehicle in Vertical Flight (courtesy of F. Mead, AFRL/PRSP, Edwards
AFB, CA).
14
UNCLASSIFIED/ ,'f811. 8ffllilAI! l!llili 8111:¥