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The D in DARPA stands for defense. As in “any laser powerful enough to power a truck is indistinguishable from a weapon”.
by credit_guy 3y ago
The D in DARPA stands for defense. As in “any laser powerful enough to power a truck is indistinguishable from a weapon”.
- avmich 3y agoI'd even suspect that this particular direction of applied research may turn counterproductive. We have means to efficiently transfer energy from space in a form of microwave. If we - DARPA first, then necessarily its counterparts from other countries - perfect laser-based energy transfer, it would be harder to oppose laser use for energy transfer from space - all while opening a window to the use of it as a weapon. Technological progress can' be stopped, of course, but this area seems out of order in time.
- signatoremo 3y agoI don’t think they’ve ever hiden that they are a military research organization first and foremost. That doesn’t mean there will be no civilian applications. GPS is a case in point.
- seamac3 3y agoLaser satellite weaponry is already here. It wouldn't matter if DARPA undertakes this project or someone else. I think it's still a good idea, if it can deliver energy cheaper than building, maintaining, and running a ground infrastructure. It could potentially lead to greater energy security. I just imagine satellites powering individual city blocks or segments, right along with remote villages. I wonder what the radiation effect is from energy delivered by laser...