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.

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Figure 3. Time-Lapse Photo of a Lightcraft Undergoing an Outdoor Vertical Flight Test
(courtesy of F. Mead, AFRL/PRSP, Edwards AFB, CA).
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