Download or read book High Energy Lasers: A Primer on Directed Energy Weapons for Space Use written by Richard F. Ziska and published by . This book was released on 1984 with total page 86 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The rapid and inevitable commercialization and exploitation of space, which is now gaining increased momentum as the Space Shuttle program settles into a regular monthly schedule, is inescapably increasing our dependence on space-based systems of all kinds. These systems have become vital national interests, the defense of which must be considered whenever realistic war-time scenarios are developed. Consequently, the introduction of weapons into the space environment is an important option, the potential of which must be thoroughly investigated so as not to unwittingly jeopardize critical national assets and ultimately national defense. This thesis is intended to be a semi-technical 'primer' on directed energy laser weapons for utilization in the space environment. The rationale for the selection of space-based laser weapon systems is examined. Additionally, the basic concepts, components, and operations of three of the most promising methods for the generation of high-power laser energy in space are presented. Keywords include: High energy lasers for Space use.