High-energy laser weapon advocates claim that such systems possess an "infinite magazine." Here's why this framing is operationally misleading.
Jared
Great article and a good counterpoint to the “power is everything” crew. Raw power must first maintain beam quality. Then the beam director and pointing/acquisition kick in. Does no one understand the terms in the brightness equation?
Gary
Thanks Gary! To be honest, I was a little anxious about publishing this as I never performed well in math and science classes in school
You nailed it!
Very good points. The engagement time and atmospheric dispersal effects are real constraints.
Jared
Great article and a good counterpoint to the “power is everything” crew. Raw power must first maintain beam quality. Then the beam director and pointing/acquisition kick in. Does no one understand the terms in the brightness equation?
Gary
Thanks Gary! To be honest, I was a little anxious about publishing this as I never performed well in math and science classes in school
You nailed it!
Very good points. The engagement time and atmospheric dispersal effects are real constraints.