Huge 'launch ring' to fling satellites into orbit

[FLO]

An enormous ring of superconducting magnets similar to a particle accelerator could fling satellites into space, or perhaps weapons around the world, suggest the findings of a new study funded by the US air force.

Proponents of the idea say it would be much cheaper than conventional rocket launches. But critics warn that the technology would be difficult to develop and that the intense g forces experienced during launch might damage the very satellites being lofted into space.

Previous studies have investigated the use of magnets to accelerate satellites to the high speeds required for launch. But most have focused on straight tracks, which have to gather speed in one quick burst. Supplying the huge spike of energy needed for this method has proven difficult.

The advantage of a circular track is that the satellite can be gradually accelerated over a period of several hours. And the setup is technologically feasible and cost effective, suggests a recent, preliminary study of the idea funded by the air force's Office of Scientific Research.

The air force has now given the go-ahead for more in-depth research of the idea.

Source: New Scientist

http://tinyurl.com/rxkhf

[The Warthog]

I see the Navy is also looking at magnetic rail guns to equip its future ships.

[Jamie]

I see the Navy is also looking at magnetic rail guns to equip its future ships.

Don't know about that mate.

Would you like a big blooming magnet under your gun incase the bullets come back at you? <a href="http://plugin.smileycentral.com/http%253A%252F%252Fwww.smileycentral.com%252F%253Fpartner%253DZSzeb008%255FZNxmk696YYGB%2526i%253D36%252F36%255F2%255F39%2526feat%253Dprof/page.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://smileys.smileycentral.com/cat/36/36_2_39.gif" alt="SmileyCentral.com" border="0">

[Grant]

This whole thing sounds like something dreamed up by ACME, the only buyers are the US government and Wil E Coyote....

[SteelRat]

Beep Beep!

[GordonCopestake]

Don't know about that mate.

Would you like a big blooming magnet under your gun incase the bullets come back at you?

I believe they use electromagnets so they can turn them on and off at will. Think about it, thats how these things work, by sending a "pulse" down the line and pulling the payload behind it. If the magnets were permanent the payload wouldn't go anywhere

[geppetto]

Bet the tin pot generals are drooling at the thought of a gun that big...

One thing's for sure it will be a weapon before its a space launching tool

Thats the way of the world :?

[OXO]

Make a good Fun Fair Ride

[FLO]

One thing's for sure it will be a weapon before its a space launching tool

It'd be an easy target for a spy satellite!

[Jamie]

Don't know about that mate.

Would you like a big blooming magnet under your gun incase the bullets come back at you?

I believe they use electromagnets so they can turn them on and off at will. Think about it, thats how these things work, by sending a "pulse" down the line and pulling the payload behind it. If the magnets were permanent the payload wouldn't go anywhere

So you missed the joke then?????? :insects1:

[GordonCopestake]

too early in the morning, i've not had my 13 cups of coffee yet :insects1: