Thrust generation through low-power laser-metal interaction for space propulsion applications

The micro-Newton thrust generation was observed through low-power continuous wave laser and aluminum foil interaction without any remarkable ablation of the target surface. To evaluate the thrust characteristics, a torsion balance thrust stand capable for the measurement of the thrust level down to...

Full description

Saved in:

Bibliographic Details
Published in:	Vacuum Vol. 88; pp. 75 - 78
Main Authors:	Horisawa, Hideyuki, Sumida, Sota, Yonamine, Hitoshi, Funaki, Ikkoh
Format:	Journal Article
Language:	English
Published:	Elsevier Ltd 01-02-2013
Subjects:	Laser propulsion Low-power laser-metal interaction Plasma propulsion Plasma propulsion Laser propulsion Low-power laser-metal interaction
Online Access:	Get full text
Tags:	Add Tag No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!

Description
Summary:	The micro-Newton thrust generation was observed through low-power continuous wave laser and aluminum foil interaction without any remarkable ablation of the target surface. To evaluate the thrust characteristics, a torsion balance thrust stand capable for the measurement of the thrust level down to micro-Newton ranges was developed. In the case of an aluminum foil target with 12.5 micrometer thickness, the maximum thrust level was 15 micro-Newtons when the laser power was 20W, or about 0.75μN/W. It was also found that the laser intensity, or laser power per unit area, irradiated on the target was significantly important on the control of the thrust even under the low-intensity level.
ISSN:	0042-207X 1879-2715
DOI:	10.1016/j.vacuum.2012.03.031