Abstract:

More and more researchers have been showing great interest in laser propulsion for its outstanding merits, such as high specific impulse, low cost, etc. Laser propulsion research programs and their development history abroad have been introduced briefly. The latest progress of laser propulsion researches is summarized. Degree of maturation of related technologies is analyzed, such as laser, transmission control system, thermodynamic protection of nozzle, etc. The development trend of laser propulsion is discussed. The application prospect of laser propulsion is presented. The key problems that should be urgently sloved are pointed out such as the indepth study on operation mechanism of laser propulsion.

Key words: laser propulsion, propulsive performance, energy converstion mechanism, thermodynamic protection, low earth orbit launch