Antiproton annihilation propulsion is highlighted as a major new form of propulsion that has moved from science fiction to serious scientific and engineering investigation. The use of antiprotons as the form of antimatter is crucial for propulsion, as the annihilation of antiprotons with protons can efficiently convert rest mass into energy​​.

The report discusses the application of antiproton annihilation to propulsion, explaining how charged ions resulting from the annihilation can be collected in a thrust chamber and used to produce thrust. It also notes that antimatter must be artificially created and requires significantly more energy to produce than can be extracted from the annihilation process​​.

The process of making antiprotons is described, involving high-energy proton beams striking a metal target to generate antiprotons, which are then separated and directed into a storage ring​​. Storing antimatter involves capturing antiprotons in electromagnetic traps, with efforts underway to capture larger quantities and develop more compact storage methods​​.

Antimatter engines are discussed, with the potential use of antihydrogen microcrystals as a highly efficient propulsion fuel. The report highlights the need for further research and development in this area, including the design of rocket engines that utilize antimatter​​.

Future plans for antiproton annihilation propulsion are outlined, with recommendations for new programs and research initiatives to advance the technology and explore its potential for space propulsion​​.

Beamed power propulsion is also explored as an alternative to traditional rocket propulsion. This concept involves using an external energy source to propel a spacecraft, potentially offering significant advantages in terms of efficiency and performance​​.

Other advanced propulsion concepts investigated include metallic hydrogen as a high-energy rocket fuel, tether space transportation systems, and unconventional applications of solar sails. These studies aim to expand the range of options for future space missions and enhance propulsion capabilities​​.

The report concludes with a discussion on the potential of solar sails for unconventional missions, highlighting the historical development of the concept and the principles behind solar sailing​​.

 Advanced Space Propulsion Study – Antiproton and Beamed Power Propulsion, October 1987 [215 Pages, 11.62MB]

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The post Advanced Space Propulsion Study – Antiproton and Beamed Power Propulsion, October 1987 first appeared on The Black Vault.

This document was referenced in a report bibliography obtained from the Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC). The record was requested, and the below is what was received. According to the Department of Justice:

FOIA Exemption (b)(4) protects “trade secrets and commercial or financial information obtained from a person [that is]privileged or confidential.” (1) This exemption is intended to protect the interests of both the government and submitters of information. Its very existence encourages submitters to voluntarily furnish useful commercial or financial information to the government and it correspondingly provides the government with an assurance that such information will be reliable. The exemption also affords protection to those submitters who are required to furnish commercial or financial information to the government by safeguarding them from the competitive disadvantages that could result from disclosure. (2) The exemption covers two broad categories of information in federal agency records: (1) trade secrets; and (2) information that is (a) commercial or financial, and (b) obtained from a person, and (c) privileged or confidential.

Document Archive

Propulsion Systems For Launch Vehicles And Spacecraft, 1977 [30 Pages, 1MB]

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The post Propulsion Systems For Launch Vehicles And Spacecraft, 1977 first appeared on The Black Vault.

According to the (final?) report for Project Outgrowth:

A study was conducted by an ad hoc group within the Air Force Rocket Propulsion Laboratory during the calendar year of 1970 in an attempt to predict the major propulsion developments that may occur in the next 40 years.  This report evaluates the future of conventional chemical rocketry based on thermodynamic principles and revolutionary conceptual approaches to system applications. Advanced concepts falling under the general headings of Thermal, Field and Photon Propulsion are evaluated to a degree necessary to define their potential. This report does not define a long list of very near-term technology program subjects, but is designed to encourage and motivate talented and interested scientists and engineers to once again strive for “Advanced Propulsion Concepts.”

I first read about Project Outgrown in October of 2018, when I created the document archive on laser propulsion. Specifically, it was referenced in a 2017 document:  Perspective on One Decade of Laser Propulsion Research at Air Force Research Laboratory, November 2017 [13 Pages, 1MB]. In this document, the excerpt was as follows:

The concept of laser propulsion was conceived in 1969 at the Air Force Rocket Propulsion Laboratory (AFRPL) by Dr. Robert L. Geisler.1 During 1970, under the direction of Donald M. Ross, a group of 28-scientist/engineers at AFRPL conducted “Project Outgrowth,” which was a systematic study of the Geisler laser propulsion concept and numerous other Advanced Propulsion Concepts. Under the editorship of Franklin B. Mead the findings of “Project Outgrowth” were published in June 1972. Nearly simultaneously, in May 1972, the most-cited laser propulsion paper appeared, “Propulsion to Orbit by Ground-Based Lasers,” authored by “Arthur Kantrowitz.

The objective of the “Project Outgrowth” was to predict and analyze advanced propulsion concepts that could occur during the subsequent 40-years. It was the seed that spawned the modern era of studies of advanced concepts. “Project Outgrowth” also set forth a philosophy for evolution of chemical propulsion that is reminiscent of the modern-day, goal-oriented technology development program known as “Integrated High Payoff Rocket Propulsion Technology,” IHPRPT.

Of course, the above is similar to some aspects of the Advanced Aerospace Weapons Systems Application Program (AAWSAP) or also referred to or connected with the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program (AATIP) which has been referred to as a “secret UFO Study.” It is interesting that AAWSAP, what is considered either the same or the umbrella project of which AATIP operated under, was begun approximately 37 years after this study.  Although a coincidence, it coincides with the aim that they would project propulsion concepts through the next 40 years, and when that time frame was nearly up, AAWSAP was contracted out to a private contractor (as the story goes).  Propulsion was specifically mentioned in the original public AAWSAP solicitation posting among others. The entire scope included:

1. lift; 2. propulsion ; 3. control; 4. power generation; 5. spatial/temporal translation; 6. materials; 7. configuration, structure; 8. signature reduction (optical, infrared, radiofrequency, acoustic); 9. human interface; 10. human effects; 11. armament 

I do not propose there is a connection, but I have learned in twenty years of researching government secrets, that usually history repeats itself, and to verify something, one just needs to look at documents that have surfaced from past projects. This shows a bit of history with advanced technology research and projecting technology through a 40 year time frame.  Nearly all of the confirmed, and verifiable documents, show this was more of the aim to AAWSAP/AATIP, rather than UFOs specifically (though we know it was an aspect).

Project Outgrowth also pursued “fringe” scientific elements (referred to in the Project Outgrowth document as “Unknown Sciences) that went along with the nuts and bolts of propulsion. According to the study, this would include “psychic forces” and “psychokinesis.”

The document outlines that Project Outgrowth evaluated various aspects of advanced propulsion, like psychokinesis, or the movement of objects by mental forces; tachyon propulsion, or the harnessing of faster-than-light particles; and natural electric energy, or the understanding the difference (and tapping thereof) of the energy between the planet earth and clouds or between the earth and a missile. These “fringe” elements of science very much coincide with the study that would take place nearly 40 years later — very much like the AATIP “DIRD” reports showed  they pursued as well.

I filed various FOIA requests for documents on this study. You will find what has become available below, and more will be added, should they come up.

Document Archive

Project Outgrowth Documents

Advanced Propulsion Concepts — Project Outgrowth, June 1972 [274 Pages, 23MB]

Wernher Von Braun Warns… And Advanced Propulsion Concepts Project Outgrowth, 1973 [15 Pages, 5MB]

The above document was forwarded to the CIA, along with many others. Below, is the formal reference to the translated information, though the full text does not reside in the CIA files or the CREST database. I tracked down the full report, which was requested via FOIA from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WPAFB) and is available at the above link.

When I posted the Wernher Von Braun Warns… And Advanced Propulsion Concepts Project Outgrowth, 1973 [15 Pages, 5MB] above, Reddit user kinch07 submitted some excellent additional information on this German publication that was archived by WPAFB and disseminated widely. They submitted the following, and with permission, I have reprinted it here for those interested:

“UFO Nachrichte[n]” which has the “n” missing in the transcript literally translates to “UFO News”. It was a “tabloid newspaper type magazine published by DUIST” which translates to German UFO Studies Community (Deutsche UFO-Studiengemeinschaft). DUIST existed from 1956 until 1988 and was founded by Karl L. Veit and Anny Veit.

Examples UFO-Nachrichten 1973-1975, they even have issue Nr. 200 on sale https://www.afushop.se/store/p/0/ufo-nachrichten-(1973-1975)-378122

Modern Homepage of UFO-nachrichten, looks quite terrible to me

DUIST Info, german

Researchers hunt for missing DUIST Archive, grenzwissenschaften also german

Other Documents of Interest

In 1983, more than 11 years after the above document was published, Princeton Combustion Research Laboratories, under contract with the Air Force Office of Scientific Research (AFOSR), created the below study on space propulsion. They make reference to the research of Project Outgrowth, showing the connection between projected advanced propulsion studies, and that of deep space travel, also very much like the AATIP “DIRD” reports showed.

Space Propulsion by Intermittent Combustion [64 Pages, 2.7MB]

The post Project Outgrowth – 1970 Study on Major Propulsion Developments first appeared on The Black Vault.

According to the document:

“By the year 2000, an increasingly large portion of our national defense will depend on space-based systems. As part of a broader set of new research initiatives in support of space systems, the Air Force Office of Scientific Research is sponsoring basic research that may be applicable to the development of megawatt-level space prime-power systems. (The emphasis of this particular new initiative is prime-power versus pulsed power including power conditioning, such as fly-wheel or inductive storage, for which there are existing programs.) To assist AFOSR, R and D Associates organized a special conference on prime-power for high-energy space systems, compiled the proceedings of the conference, and provided a review document identifying basic research areas in support of future space prime-power development. This document is the Appendix of the present report. The intent has been to focus on basic vs applied research and to provide guidance and assistance to prospective researchers. In this last regard, a bibliography of space prime-power is contained in the appended document.”

Document Archive

Research Needs: Prime-Power for High Energy Space Systems, June 1982 [104 Pages, 4.9MB]

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The post Research Needs: Prime-Power for High Energy Space Systems, June 1982 first appeared on The Black Vault.

The task was to survey the entire field of advanced propulsion to uncover and carry out a technical assessment of any concept that showed promise of leading to a major advance in available energy sources for space power and propulsion in the next century. In general we were to consider any concept that might derive energy from the space environment, as well as any unconventional methods of storing energy in a compact form that may have applicability to space power and propulsion. The best of these were to be selected for investigation in Phase 2 of the contract. We uncovered 62 concepts, carried out technical assessments on 26 of the more promising concepts, and recommended that four concepts be considered for more detailed study in Phase 2. The concepts recommended were solid metastable helium, solar pumped plasmas, perforated solar sails, and antiproton annihilation propulsion. Of these, the Air Force selected two concepts to receive the major portion of the Phase 2 effort, solar pumped plasmas and antiproton annihilation.

Document Archive

 Alternate Propulsion Energy Sources, Phase 1 Report for the period 3 March 1983 to 23 May 1983 [104 Pages, 4.4MB]

 Alternate Propulsion Energy Sources, Final Report for the period 3 March 1983 to 21 September 1983 [141 Pages, 8.1MB]

The post Alternative Propulsion Energy Sources, Forward Unlimited Contracted Research, 1983 first appeared on The Black Vault.

Beam-powered propulsion, also known as directed energy propulsion, is a class of aircraft or spacecraft propulsion that uses energy beamed to the spacecraft from a remote power plant to provide energy. The beam is typically either a microwave or a laser beam and it is either pulsed or continuous. A continuous beam lends itself to thermal rockets, photonic thrusters and light sails, whereas a pulsed beam lends itself to ablative thrusters and pulse detonation engines.

The rule of thumb that is usually quoted is that it takes a megawatt of power beamed to a vehicle per kg of payload while it is being accelerated to permit it to reach low earth orbit.

This technology is also part of the research aim of the “To The Stars Academy of Arts & Sciences“. I compiled the below documents to explore the research the U.S. Government and Military has already collected and what they have tested in regards to the technology.

Document Archive

(In chronological order from most recent to oldest)

 Perspective on One Decade of Laser Propulsion Research at Air Force Research Laboratory, November 2017 [13 Pages, 1MB] – The Air Force Laser Propulsion Program spanned nearly 10-years and included about 35-weeks of experimental research with the Pulsed Laser Vulnerability Test System of the High Energy Laser Systems Test Facility at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico, WSMR/HELSTF/PLVTS. PLVTS is a pulsed CO2 laser that produces up to 10 kW of power in ~ 10 cm2 spot at wavelength of 10.6 microns. The laser is capable of a pulse repetition rate up to 25 Hz, with pulse durations of about 20 microseconds. During the program basic research was conducted on the production of propulsion thrust from laser energy through heating of air and ablation of various candidate rocket propellant fuels. Flight tests with an ablation fuel (Delrin) and air were accomplished with a model Laser Lightcraft vehicle that was optimized for propulsion by the PLVTS at its maximum power output, 10kW at 25 Hz, 400 J/pulse. Altitudes exceeding 200-feet were achieved with ablation fuels. The most recent contributions to the technology included development of a mini-thruster standard for testing of chemically enhanced fuels and theoretical calculations on the performance of formulations containing ammonium nitrate and Delrin. Results of these calculations will also be reported here.

 Earth to Orbit Beamed Energy Experiment, September 2017 [5 Pages, 0.81MB] – As a means of primary propulsion, beamed energy propulsion offers the benefit of offloading much of the propulsion system mass from the vehicle, increasing its potential performance and freeing it from the constraints of the rocket equation. For interstellar missions, beamed energy propulsion is arguably the most viable in the near- to mid-term. A near-term demonstration showing the feasibility of beamed energy propulsion is necessary and, fortunately, feasible using existing technologies. Key enabling technologies are large area, low mass spacecraft and efficient and safe high power laser systems capable of long distance propagation. NASA is currently developing the spacecraft technology through the Near Earth Asteroid Scout solar sail mission and has signed agreements with the Planetary Society to study the feasibility of precursor laser propulsion experiments using their LightSail-2 solar sail spacecraft. The capabilities of Space Situational Awareness assets and the advanced analytical tools available for fine resolution orbit determination now make it possible to investigate the practicalities of an Earth-to-orbit Beamed Energy eXperiment (EBEX) – a demonstration at delivered power levels that only illuminate a spacecraft without causing damage to it. The degree to which this can be expected to produce a measurable change in the orbit of a low ballistic coefficient spacecraft is investigated. Key system characteristics and estimated performance are derived for a near term mission opportunity involving the LightSail-2 spacecraft and laser power levels modest in comparison to those proposed previously. While the technology demonstrated by such an experiment is not sufficient to enable an interstellar precursor mission, if approved, then it would be the next step toward that goal.

 Review Of Laser Lightcraft Propulsion System, October 16, 2017, by Dr. Eric W. Davis [13 Pages, 1MB] – Laser-powered “Lightcraft” systems that deliver nano-satellites to LEO have been studied for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). The study was built on the extensive Lightcraft laser propulsion technology already developed by theoretical and experimental work by the AFRL’s Propulsion Directorate at Edwards AFB, CA. Here we review the history and engineering-physics of the laser Lightcraft system and its propulsive performance. We will also review the effectiveness and cost of a Lightcraft vehicle powered by a high-energy laser beam. One result of this study is the significant influence of laser wavelength on the power lost during laser beam propagation through Earth’s atmosphere and in space. It was discovered that energy and power losses in the laser beam are extremely sensitive to wavelength for Earth-to-Orbit missions, and this significantly affects the amount of mass that can be placed into orbit for a given maximum amount of radiated power from a ground-based laser.

 MOVEMENT AND MANEUVER IN DEEP SPACE: A Framework to Leverage Advanced Propulsion, April 2017 [72 Pages, 7.5MB] – This analytical study looks at the importance of Deep Space Operations and recommends an approach for senior policy leaders. Section 1 presents a capability requirements definition with candidate solutions and technology strategies. Section 2 recommends an acquisition and organizational approach. Section 3 provides an extended strategic rationale for deep space operations as a national priority.

 Beamed-Energy Propulsion (BEP): Considerations for Beaming High Energy-Density Electromagnetic Waves Through the Atmosphere, May 2015 [58 Pages, 1.7MB] – A study to determine the feasibility of employing beamed electromagnetic energy for vehicle propulsion within and outside the Earth’s atmosphere was co-funded by NASA and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency that began in June 2010 and culminated in a Summary Presentation in April 2011. A detailed report entitled “Beamed-Energy Propulsion (BEP) Study” appeared in February 2012 as NASA/TM-2012-217014. Of the very many nuances of this subject that were addressed in this report, the effects of transferring the required high energy-density electromagnetic fields through the atmosphere were discussed. However, due to the limitations of the length of the report, only a summary of the results of the detailed analyses were able to be included. It is the intent of the present work to make available the complete analytical modeling work that was done for the BEP project with regard to electromagnetic wave propagation issues. In particular, the present technical memorandum contains two documents that were prepared in 2011. The first one, entitled “Effects of Beaming Energy Through the Atmosphere” contains an overview of the analysis of the nonlinear problem inherent with the transfer of large amounts of energy through the atmosphere that gives rise to thermally-induced changes in the refractive index; application is then made to specific beamed propulsion scenarios. A brief portion of this report appeared as Appendix G of the 2012 Technical Memorandum. The second report, entitled “An Analytical Assessment of the Thermal Blooming Effects on the Propagation of Optical and Millimeter- Wave Focused Beam Waves For Power Beaming Applications” was written in October 2010 (not previously published), provides a more detailed treatment of the propagation problem and its effect on the overall characteristics of the beam such as its deflection as well as its radius. Comparisons are then made for power beaming using the disparate electromagnetic wavelengths of 1.06 microns and 2.0 millimeters..

 Numerical Analysis of a Single Microchannel Within a High-Temperature Hydrogen Heat Exchanger for Beamed Energy Propulsion Applications, February 2013 [8 Pages, 1.5MB] – The requirement that the propellants used in launch vehicle systems must also provide the thermal energy to be converted to kinetic energy in the rocket nozzle has plagued rocket designers since the dawn of the space age. Beamed propulsion systems, however, avoid this constraint by placing the energy source on the ground and transmitting the energy to the spacecraft via microwaves. This work computationally models three different heat exchanger channel designs for use in a beam propulsion spacecraft. It was found that despite the very small diameter of the microchannels, each design produced extreme temperature gradients across the channel cross section.

 Investigation of Innovative Lightcraft Designs for Hypersonic Air Breathing and Rocket Flight by Beamed Energy Propulsion, June 2013 [251 Pages, 12.7MB] – The report has three parts: 1) Lightcraft inlet design: The work outlines the innovative streamtraced design methodology and a number of suitable lightcraft inlet designs. It also contains an analysis of laser detonation, a system level analysis of lightcraft flight and analysis of a ground test model. 2) Experimental ground testing. The lightcraft design documented in Part 1 was tested at the University of Southern Queensland’s hypersonic test facility. This report documents these tests that include both flow visualization and surface pressure measurements for a range of angles of attack. 3) Future flight test program. A feasibility study was performed to investigate how a future lightcraft test program may be conducted. A multi-part test program is described including trajectory and cost estimates.

 Beamed-Energy Propulsion (BEP) Study, February 2012 [698 Pages, 96.8MB] – The scope of this study was to (1) review and analyze the state-of-art in beamed-energy propulsion (BEP) by identifying potential game-changing applications, (2) formulate a roadmap of technology development, and (3) identify key near-term technology demonstrations to rapidly advance elements of BEP technology to Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6. The two major areas of interest were launching payloads and space propulsion. More generally, the study was requested and structured to address basic mission feasibility. The attraction of beamed-energy propulsion (BEP) is the potential for high specific impulse while removing the power-generation mass. The rapid advancements in high-energy beamed-power systems and optics over the past 20 years warranted a fresh look at the technology. For launching payloads, the study concluded that using BEP to propel vehicles into space is technically feasible if a commitment to develop new technologies and large investments can be made over long periods of time. From a commercial competitive standpoint, if an advantage of beamed energy for Earth-to-orbit (ETO) is to be found, it will rest with smaller, frequently launched payloads. For space propulsion, the study concluded that using beamed energy to propel vehicles from low Earth orbit to geosynchronous Earth orbit (LEO-GEO) and into deep space is definitely feasible and showed distinct advantages and greater potential over current propulsion technologies. However, this conclusion also assumes that upfront infrastructure investments and commitments to critical technologies will be made over long periods of time. The chief issue, similar to that for payloads, is high infrastructure costs.

 New Technology and Lunar Power Option for Power Beaming Propulsion, October 2004 [14 Pages, 0.7MB] – Orbit raising missions (LEO to GEO or beyond) are the only missions with enough current traffic to even be seriously considered for power beaming propulsion. Even these missions cannot justify the development expenditures required to deploy the required new laser, optical and propulsion technologies or the programmatic risks. To be deployed, the laser and optics technologies must be spin-offs of other funded programs. The manned lunar base nighttime power requirements may justify a major power beaming program with 2MW lasers and large optical systems. New laser and optical technologies may now make this mission plausible. If deployed these systems could be diverted for power beaming propulsion applications. Propulsion options include a thermal system with an Isp near 1000 sec., a photovoltaic-ion propulsion systems with an Isp near 3000 sec., and a possible new optical coupled thermal system with an Isp over 2000 sec.

 Two Temperature Modeling and Experimental Measurements of Laser Sustained Hydrogen Plasmas, May 1993 [244 Pages, 12MB] – Experiments have been performed which measured the global absorption and thermal efficiency of laser sustained hydrogen plasmas for the first time. Results include global absorption as high as 90% and thermal efficiency as high as 80%. These results validate laser propulsion as a feasible orbital transfer technology. A kinetic nonequilibrium model of laser sustained hydrogen plasmas has been formulated and solved. This model is the first of its kind and includes a discretized beam raytrace with a variable index of refraction based upon plasma electron number density. Model results have compared favorably with experimental results and the model has been used to provide predictions of LSP performance well outside the realm of experiments. Multiple model solutions have been obtained which are dependent upon initial conditions. No significant kinetic nonequilibrium was observed in LSP core regions for incident powers up to 700 kW. Beam refraction by the LSP has been observed to have a major effect on LSP performance. The methodology formulated in this document has direct applicability to two temperature modeling of arcjet plasmas, work which is currently underway at UIUC…. Beamed energy propulsion, Two temperature modeling, Laser sustained hydrogen plasmas.

 Transport Processes in Beamed Energy Propulsion Systems, 1 Sep 1989-30 Sep 1991  [61 Pages, 2.6MB] – A model of a microwave-induced plasma propulsion system has been developed in one dimension for a transverse electric mode (TE sub 10) of operation in a rectangular waveguide. Available experimental data are compared to the computational results for the case of a planar propagating plasma wave and, using a TE sub 10 mode-shape approximation, for a wave propagating in a waveguide. Temperature profiles, plasma propagation velocities, velocity profiles, and absorbed power histories are obtained for flow of helium from .5 to 1 atmosphere pressure and 500 to 3000 watts input power at a frequency of 2. 45 GHz. The computational results show the observed jumping of the plasma towards the microwave source. Peak plasma temperatures range from 8000 to 9000 K over the input power range. For an input power of 1081.7 W the calculated percentage of power absorbed in approximately 70 percent for the planar case and 40 percent for the waveguide case. Comparisons with experimental data indicate other mechanisms (not involving transient processes), most likely associated with the nonequilibrium behavior of the plasma, are responsible for the disagreement between the model results and the observed plasma propagation velocities.

 Energy Conversion Measurements in Laser-Sustained Argon Plasmas for Application to Rocket Propulsion, April 1988 [89 Pages, 4.6MB] – Laser Propulsion is the production of high specific impulse rocket thrust using a high power laser as a remote energy source. Specific impulses in excess of 1000 seconds are achievable because propellant temperatures are very high and low molecular weight gases can be used. This report focuses on the energy conversion mechanisms of laser-sustained plasmas in flowing argon. The status of AFOSR sponsored experiments to determine thermal efficiency and global absorption is detailed. An improved testing facility has allowed plasma operating conditions never before possible. The results indicate that nearly all of the input laser power can be absorbed by a plasma. Plasmas at elevated gas pressure have been tested, and preliminary results presented. Optimal operating conditions have yet to be determined for the available laser powers and gas pressures. Further experimentation at very high argon gas velocities ( 20 m/s) must be performed in order to completely characterize plasma behavior. Keywords: Beamed energy propulsion, Laser plasma formation.

 Advanced Energy Conversion Concept for Beamed-Energy Propulsion, 21 August 1987 [202 Pages, 6.7MB] – The principal objective of this study was to perform basic research investigations into an innovative power conversion concept for trans atmospheric, beamed energy propulsion: a new class of External Surface Impulse (ESI) thrusters. This advanced thruster principle could be used for atmospheric VTOL, high acceleration, and lateral flight (e.g., short-term cruise ) propulsion of Single-Stage-To-Orbit (SSTO) beam-powered shuttlecraft of the next century. Three classes of ESI thrusters were initially examined: 1) simple thermal, 2) electrostatic and 3) electromagnetic. Beam power wavelengths from 10cm (microwave) to 0.3um (laser) were considered. The subsequent research effort concentrated on the simple thermal repetitively-pulsed ESI thrusters, energized with laser power and using air as the working fluid. Laser frequencies were selected because of the relative wealth of experimental data and theoretical research on laser impulse coupling which exists in the literature. The first year analytical effort has proven conclusively that such an engine can deliver high levels of thrust-to-beam-power at liftoff (e.g., at least an order-of-magnitude greater than beam-powered hydrogen-fueled rockets), with infinite specific impulse (decreased only, perhaps, by ablation of the thruster surface). Later along an orbital trajectory, the primary propulsion function would transition to other modes; upon leaving the atmosphere, the SSTO vehicle would continue in a pure rocket mode with a specific impulse (I sp) of 1000 seconds or more. Keywords: Advanced airbreathing propulsion, Beamed energy propulsion, External radiation heated (EH) thruster.

 Experiments in Plasma Initiation and Laser Absorption in Flowing Gases, April 1985 [41 Pages, 1.9MB] – This report summarizes the preliminary results of experiments designed to characterize the thermal and gasdynamic behavior of laser-sustained plasmas in flowing argon. Calorimetric measurements of global absorption have been made over a range of laser power and pressure. Temperature field mappings yield preliminary estimates of thermal gas energy and radiative losses. An infrared imaging system has been used to study plasma properties as a function of power and flow rate. Spectroscopic and laser-induced fluorescence diagnostic systems, now being installed, are highlighted. Physical implications of the data are discussed, and results of a 2-D heat addition model are presented. Keywords include: Beamed energy propulsion, and Absorption of laser energy in gases.

 A Plasma Initiation/Flow Chamber to Study CW Laser Beamed Energy Absorption in Light Gases, March 1984 [78 Pages, 3.6MB] – This report summarizes the research work that has been done in the past year, investigating the use of laser-sustained plasmas for propulsion applications. One focus of the research is the initiation of plasmas in inert gases using metal vapor seedants. Another is to define the operating characteristics of the dual-flow design by measuring temperatures, number densities, and global absorption. A pressure chamber has been built to permit observations of the plasma under wide ranges of pressure, flow conditions, and beam geometry. Laser energy absorption will be measured using a high -flux calorimeter, and temperature profiles will be found using a combination of spectroscopic relative line intensity measurements, thermocouples, infrared thermography, and possible laser induced fluorescence. The report summarizes the design and construction of the pressure chamber, optics, and related equipment, and discusses the techniques which will be used to analyze temperatures throughout the flowfield. Keywords include: Beam energy propulsion, CW laser application, Absorption of electromagnetic radiation.

 Summary of Equipment Purchased and Description of Its Use: Support of Research in Beamed Energy Propulsion 1 Oct 84-1 Mar 86 [13 Pages, 0.9MB] – This report presents the description equipment purchased, the cost of that equipment, and how the equipment is being utilized to carry out research in the study of plasmas formed from high energy lasers. The program was funded by DoD as part of the University Research Instrumentation Program (URIP). Important results of the thermodynamic and heat transfer associated with laser sustained plasmas are presented. Keywords: Diagnostic equipment, Temperature measurement, Beamed laser energy, Propulsion.

 Investigation of Beamed Energy Concepts for Propulsion. Laser/Propellant Coupling Analyses. Volume II, 2 Sep 75 – 1 Jul 76 [134 Pages, 22MB] – The objective of this program is to assess the feasibility of the beamed energy propulsion concept for Air Force missions. The work is divided into three major tasks: (1) system studies; (2) theoretical analyses of the coupling mechanisms between the beamed energy and propellant working fluid and (3) preparation of a test plan for the experimental investigation of the coupling processes for various laser/propellant combinations. The results of the study indicate that beamed energy propulsion is technically feasible. No fundamental obstacles have been identified. However considerable technical development is needed in many areas before the concept can be operationally implemented. Three promising applications have been identified. The laser powered tug can be cost effective compared to an advanced cryogenic tug. Apsidal rotation correction and drag make-up are two other missions where significant advantages may be realized for the laser powered concept. Extensive hardware development is required. Critical areas include the lasers, thrusters, thruster reaction chamber windows and the collection and coupling subsystems.

 Investigation of Beamed Energy Concepts for Propulsion. Laser/Propellant Coupling Analyses. Volume I, 2 Sep 75 – 1 Jul 76 [262 Pages, 41.2MB] – The objective of this program is to assess the feasibility of the beamed energy propulsion concept for Air Force missions. The results of the study indicate that beamed energy propulsion is technically feasible. No fundamental obstacles have been identified. However considerable technical development is needed in many areas before the concept can be operationally implemented. In order to minimize the required collector area, laser concepts are preferred over microwaves. If space based laser transmitter concepts are to be cost effective they will require the availability of megawatt level space nuclear or solar power stations. In view of the large total energy required for each mission, ground based transmitters will be most cost effective when they are operated closed cycle from central station electric power. Laser transmitting ranges greater than several hundred nautical miles will result in excessive collector sizes. Therefore, ground based transmitters applications will be restricted to orbital functions which can be performed at low orbital altitudes. Three promising applications have been identified. The laser powered tug can be cost effective compared to an advanced cryogenic tug. Apsidal rotation correction and drag make-up are two other missions where significant advantages may be realized for the laser powered concept.

Additional Information

The post Beamed Energy Propulsion / Beamed Laser Energy Propulsion Documents first appeared on The Black Vault.

Laser-powered “Lightcraft” systems that deliver nano-satellites to LEO have been studied for the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). The study was built on the extensive Lightcraft laser propulsion technology already developed by theoretical and experimental work by the AFRL’s Propulsion Directorate at Edwards AFB, CA. Here we review the history and engineering-physics of the laser Lightcraft system and its propulsive performance. We will also review the effectiveness and cost of a Lightcraft vehicle powered by a high-energy laser beam. One result of this study is the significant influence of laser wavelength on the power lost during laser beam propagation through Earth’s atmosphere and in space. It was discovered that energy and power losses in the laser beam are extremely sensitive to wavelength for Earth-to-Orbit missions, and this significantly affects the amount of mass that can be placed into orbit for a given maximum amount of radiated power from a ground-based laser.

Document Archive

 Review Of Laser Lightcraft Propulsion System, October 16, 2017, by Dr. Eric W. Davis [13 Pages, 1MB]

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The post Review Of Laser Lightcraft Propulsion System, October 16, 2017, by Dr. Eric W. Davis first appeared on The Black Vault.

The following document was obtained from the Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC) in October of 2014 under FOIA Case 2015-34.

According to the document:

All presently known propulsion systems apply a localized force to a rigid body. In contrast, the forces resisting motion (weight and inertia) are acting upon each constituent particle of the body—thereby limiting the acceleration to which it may be subjected. This limit depends upon the strength of the molecular bonds within the materials which compose the body, and these bonds will fail when a differential force applied across them is too large.

Such a differential force can arise when an excessive propulsive force is applied against the inertia and/or weight of the more isolated members of the body. The strength of the molecular bond, then, determines the maximum acceleration of the body. Acceleration limits on present vehicles are a few multiples of gravity (gfs).

If propulsive force could be applied at the fundamental (probably subnuclear particle) level of matter, the limitations just mentioned would no longer be valid. The concept of “gravitational control” to be discussed in this report will be concerned with the modification of forces (gravitational and inertial) at this level.

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 Gravitational Control Research by John T. Watson, February 1961 [52 Pages, 2.9MB]

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The post Gravitational Control Research by John T. Watson, February 1961 first appeared on The Black Vault.

According to the document:

“This Phase I effort was intended to explore the Biefield-Brown effect, which allegedly converts electrostatic energy into a propulsive force. Activities under this program emphasized the experimental exploration of this electrostatic thrust-generation concept to verify its existence, to verify its operation in a vacuum, and to establish the magnitude of its thrust. To meet these goals an overall laboratory test configuration was designed and developed for quantifying the electrostatically induced propulsive forces on selected experimental devices.

This configuration utilized a vacuum chamber with a torsion fiber type measurement system for direct assessment of propulsive forces. Geometrical symmetries were incorporated in the design to minimize the influence of reaction forces which can arise from nearby bodies, including the walls of the vacuum chamber itself. Tests were conducted at atmospheric pressure and over a range of partial vacuum conditions. Direct experimental results indicate that when an electrostatic potential difference is applied between asymmetrical electrodes of an all metal test device, a residual propulsive force is generated and acts on the device. This residual force acts in the opposite direction to electrical wind forces and to the forces claimed to have been measured in a vacuum by T.T. Brown.”

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 21st Century Propulsion Concept, April 1988 (Veritay Technology, Inc.) [73 Pages, 3.7MB]

https://documents.theblackvault.com/documents/dtic/a197537.pdf

The post 21st Century Propulsion Concept, April 1988 (Veritay Technology, Inc.) first appeared on The Black Vault.

This study was tasked with the purpose of conducting a thorough literature and program search to carry out and document a technical assessment of the latest concepts in science and engineering that show promise of leading to a major advance in Earth-to-orbit (ETO) propulsion.

The study also reviewed and evaluated a select number of credible far-term breakthrough propulsion physics concepts pertaining to R&D work done on or related to gravity/inertia modification, spacetime metric modification, and the extraction of energy from the space vacuum environment. The results of the study are presented and summarized in this report. A combined bibliography of advanced propulsion references was assembled and is presented. The report includes an overview of the recent history and present state-of-the-art of ETO launch vehicle and propulsion concepts.

Also included is an outline and summary of the criteria and operative guidelines that the author used to examine, select and recommend advanced propulsion concepts. The author identified and selected five promising advanced propulsion concepts, and provides a detailed technical evaluation of their breakthrough potential for ETO propulsion.

The Advanced Propulsion Study is divided into two phases. Phase I is a review and documentation of the latest concepts in science and engineering that show promise of leading to a major advance in propulsion, especially Earth-to-Orbit (ETO) propulsion. This phase also included a study of all the concepts pertaining to R&D work done on or related to gravity/inertia modification, spacetime metric modification (i.e., traversable wormholes, space warps, polarizable vacuum representation of general relativity, etc.), and the extraction of energy from the space vacuum environment. At the completion of this phase the author recommended five promising advanced propulsion concepts for further evaluation.

The author then presented an oral review and technical summary of the recommended advanced propulsion concepts at the AFRL Propulsion Directorate at Edwards AFB, CA on January 5, 2004. Phase II involved a detailed evaluation of the concepts identified and selected in Phase I, which were deemed by the author to have the greatest breakthrough potential for ETO propulsion. Phase II collated all of the results and presents them in this final report.

The report contains four chapters. Chapter 1 is an overview of the present state-of-the-art of ETO launch vehicle and propulsion concepts. The chapter also outlines and summarizes the criteria and operative guidelines that were used by the author to examine, select and recommend advanced propulsion concepts. Chapter 2 is a review and summary of a substantial number of advanced propulsion concepts the author evaluated for the study. Chapter 3 presents the author’s five recommended advanced propulsion concepts, which includes a detailed technical evaluation of their breakthrough potential for ETO propulsion. Chapter 4 is a review and summary of a select number of far-term advanced propulsion concepts. The far-term propulsion concepts are comprised of breakthrough propulsion physics concepts that are very credible and rigorous. The report concludes with a combined list of references.

Download the Study

 Advanced Propulsion Study, February 2004 [103 Pages, 4.3MB]

https://documents.theblackvault.com/documents/aviation/ADA426465.pdf

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Deep Space Communication

 Research Summary Number 36-1. Volume 1 for the Period 1 December 1959-1 February 1960 [ 10 Pages, 4.1MB ] – As part of the United States Deep Space Research Program, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is establishing a system of space probe radio communication stations to be known as the Deep Space Instrumentation Facility (DSIF).

Deep Space Travel

 Outer Space Propulsion by Nuclear Energy, January/February 1958 [ 239 Pages, 17.5MB ] – The Joint Committee on Atomic Energy has for a number of years concerned itself with the development of nuclear propulsion for a variety of peacetime and military uses. Perhaps the most outstanding example of nuclear propulsion in action is the Nautilus and its counterparts in the underseas fleet of the United States Navy. This document is the: SUBCOMMITTEES OF THE JOINT COMMITTEE ON ATOMIC ENERGY CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES EIGHTY-FIFTH CONGRESS SECOND SESSION ON OUTER SPACE PROPULSION BY NUCLEAR ENERGY.

 Twenty-First Century Space Propulsion Study, October 1990 [ 76 Pages, 4.46MB ] – The contract objective was to monitor the research at the forefront of physics and engineering to discover new space propulsion concepts. The major topics covered were antiproton annihilation propulsion, solar sails, space tethers, microspacecraft, and unconventional propulsion concepts. Nine papers were published on : (1) using light pressure to levitate a communication satellite poleward from its position on the equatorial geosynchronous orbit; (2) a ‘polesitter’ spacecraft that uses light pressure to hover over the polar regions of the earth; (3) a complete analysis of all the forces on a non-ideal ‘grey’ solar sail; (4) a new solar sail design with better performance than a standard solar sail; (5) a new tether transportation system called the ‘cable catapult’; (6) a thorough analysis of propulsion using negative matter; (7) a review of space warps; and (8,9) two reviews of advanced space propulsion. Also published were issues 8 through 18 of the Mirror Matter newsletter on the science and technology of stored antimatter. Five other reports are included as appendices.

 Twenty-First Century Space Propulsion Study Addendum, June 1991 [ 40 Pages, 2.28MB ] – This addendum to the final report on the contract (AL-TR-90-030, 21st Century Space Propulsion Study, (Oct 1990, ADA229279) evaluates a number of new space propulsion and sensor concepts. The major topics covered were coherent neutrino scattering and its application to neutrino sensors, the use of tethers for power and propulsion in space, the application of high pressure, high energy density materials, specifically metallic hydrogen, to divert velocity thrusters, and the use of solar sails to provide a non-orbiting space platform for surveillance and space-to-surface missiles. Two technical papers, included as appendices, are entitled: Surgical strikes from space using solar sail satellites; The Weber effect experiments.

Advanced Space Propulsion Study – Antiproton and Beamed Power Propulsion, October 1987  – The contract objective was to monitor the research at the forefront of physics and engineering to discover new spacecraft propulsion concepts. The major topics covered were antiproton annihilation propulsion, laser thermal propulsion, laser-pushed lightsails, tether transportation systems, solar sails, and metallic hydrogen. Five papers were prepared and are included as appendices. They covered 1) pellet, microwave, and laser beamed power systems for interstellar transport; 2) a design for a near-relativistic laser-pushed lightsail using near-term laser technology; 3) a survey of laser thermal propulsion, tether transportation systems, antiproton annihilation propulsion, exotic applications of solar sails, and laser-pushed interstellar lightsails; 4) the status of antiproton annihilation propulsion as of 1986, and 5) the prospects for obtaining antimatter ions heavier than antiprotons. Two additional appendices contain the first seven issues of the Mirror Matter Newsletter concerning the science and technology of antimatter, and an annotated bibliography of antiproton science and technology.

 Design and Stress Analysis of Extraterrestrial Electric Rocket Engines, 1970 [ 670 Pages, 29.67MB ] – Given are general data on the design of electric rocket engines calculation of their strength and vibrations, evaluation of their reliability. Considerable attention is given to power generators of cosmic engine installations. Analyzed are structural diagrams of nuclear reactors, isotopic power supply sources, solar concentrators and chemical fuel elements. Given are methods for calculation of strength of various generator parts; housings, casings, and walls, perforated plates under load. Discussed is the calculation of temperature stresses in heat-releasing reactor elements.

 Controlled Fusion for Space Propulsion, April 1963 [ 24 Pages, 1.1MB ] – Since controlled fusion will probably be achieved in the near future, the feasibility of applying it to the propulsion of space vehicles was studied. Some qualitative arguments are given to support the technical feasibility of this application. Problem areas that require solution prior to the establishment of design philosophy are also discussed. Because of the potential of a fusion-propelled space vehicle for the accomplishment of very high energy missions, a preliminary research program for investigating the feasibility of fusion energy for propulsion is deemed justified.

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