Removing Orbital Debris with Lasers

Details Removing Orbital Debris with Lasers Removing Orbital Debris with Lasers

2011-10-17

arxiv.org/abs/1110.3835v1

Physics

Space Physics

37 pages, 15 figures, in preparation for submission to Advances in Space Research

Scientific paper

Orbital debris in low Earth orbit (LEO) are now sufficiently dense that the use of LEO space is threatened by runaway collisional cascading. A problem predicted more than thirty years ago, the threat from debris larger than about 1 cm demands serious attention. A promising proposed solution uses a high power pulsed laser system on the Earth to make plasma jets on the objects, slowing them slightly, and causing them to re-enter and burn up in the atmosphere. In this paper, we reassess this approach in light of recent advances in low-cost, light-weight modular design for large mirrors, calculations of laser-induced orbit changes and in design of repetitive, multi-kilojoule lasers, that build on inertial fusion research. These advances now suggest that laser orbital debris removal (LODR) is the most cost-effective way to mitigate the debris problem. No other solutions have been proposed that address the whole problem of large and small debris. A LODR system will have multiple uses beyond debris removal. International cooperation will be essential for building and operating such a system.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Removing Orbital Debris with Lasers does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Removing Orbital Debris with Lasers, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Removing Orbital Debris with Lasers will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-289482