Abstract
This paper presents an improved laser ablation model and compares the performance – Δv and mass efficiency - of laser ablation against contactless deflection methods based on ion-propulsion. The deflection of an asteroid through laser ablation is achieved by illuminating the surface of the asteroid with a high intensity laser light. The absorbed energy induces the sublimation of the surface material and the generation of a plume of gas and ejecta. Similar to a rocket engine, the flow of expelled material produces a continuous and controllable thrust that could be used to modify the trajectory and tumbling motion of the asteroid. Recent results gained from a series of laser ablation experiments were used to improve the sublimation and deflection models. In each experiment a terrestrial olivine sample was ablated, under vacuum, with a 90 W continuous wave laser. The outcomes of the experimental campaign have enabled the mathematic model, and its defining assumptions to be evaluated and updated
Original language | English |
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Pages | IAA PDC13-04-21 |
Publication status | Published - 15 Apr 2013 |
Event | IAA Planetary Defense Conference - Flagstaff, United States Duration: 15 Apr 2013 → 19 May 2013 |
Conference
Conference | IAA Planetary Defense Conference |
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Country/Territory | United States |
City | Flagstaff |
Period | 15/04/13 → 19/05/13 |
Keywords
- experimental characterization
- thrust induced
- laser ablation
- asteroid