Diffraction effects in directed radiation beams

Bahman Hafizi; Phillip Sprangle

doi:10.1117/12.43509

1 April 1991 Diffraction effects in directed radiation beams

Bahman Hafizi, Phillip Sprangle

Proceedings Volume 1407, Intense Microwave and Particle Beams II; (1991) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.43509
Event: Optics, Electro-Optics, and Laser Applications in Science and Engineering, 1991, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

1467_37A number of proposed applications of electromagnetic waves require that the radiation beam maintain a high intensity over an appreciable propagation distance. An example of this is the possibility of a power satellite providing electrical energy to a host of other satellites by means of directed radiation beams. This is referred to as power beaming. Another example is the possibility of accelerating particles to ultra-high energies by utilizing high-power laser beams. Other applications include advanced radar and directed-energy sources. The quest to achieve these objectives has led to a resurgence of research on propagation of radiation beams and diffraction theory. Diffraction causes a beam of radiation to spread out in the lateral direction and, from energy conservation, the intensity drops off correspondingly. Briefly, the objective of much of the research being carried out is: 'Can diffraction be overcome?' The authors present a survey and critique of the analyses and experimental tests of solutions of the wave equation in connection with so-called diffractionless and other directed radiation beams. The examples discussed include electromagnetic missiles, Bessel beams, electromagnetic directed energy pulse trains, and electromagnetic bullets.

Citation Download Citation

Bahman Hafizi and Phillip Sprangle "Diffraction effects in directed radiation beams", Proc. SPIE 1407, Intense Microwave and Particle Beams II, (1 April 1991); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.43509

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available