3 ms·
“Energy drains and inefficiencies” underplays it. The laser they’re using is, what, 10% efficient? So they’re at least an order of magnitude away from net power
by NotYourLawyer 3y ago
“Energy drains and inefficiencies” underplays it. The laser they’re using is, what, 10% efficient? So they’re at least an order of magnitude away from net power. Probably two orders.
- DennisP 3y ago0.5% efficient, but they're old lasers. Equivalent modern ones are over 20% efficient. Also, with their first Q>1 shot they increased the laser power 8% and got 230% more output. They think the nonlinear scaling will continue for a while. If they're right, then they're not actually that far from overall net power, if you correct for the obsolete laser tech.