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...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Vacuum 2013-02, Vol.88, p.75-78
Main Authors: Horisawa, Hideyuki, Sumida, Sota, Yonamine, Hitoshi, Funaki, Ikkoh
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Laser propulsion
Low-power laser-metal interaction
Plasma propulsion
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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