Plans to test a space-based missile-zapping laser in orbit have been dropped
because of budget cuts by the US Congress. Three key elements of the Space Based
Laser have been tested on the ground: a high-power hydrogen/fluorine laser, a
large focusing mirror, and an optical system to find and track targets. An
in-orbit test of the combined elements was scheduled for 2013. Now Congress has
slashed this year’s programme budget from $170 million to $50
million, enough to fund only a small technology development project.
To continue reading, today with our introductory offers
Advertisement
More from Â鶹´«Ã½
Explore the latest news, articles and features
Popular articles
Trending Â鶹´«Ã½ articles
1
Exclusive report: Inside Chernobyl, 40 years after nuclear disaster
2
A key solution to climate change isn't happening – and that's good
3
Neanderthal infants were enormous compared with modern humans
4
Electric vehicle owners could earn thousands by supporting power grid
5
The biggest threat to Chernobyl is no longer radiation
6
Collapse of key ocean current may release billions of tonnes of carbon
7
How autoimmune conditions can unexpectedly drive mental illness
8
Largest ever map of universe captures 47 million galaxies and quasars
9
The man who crawls into the perilous heart of the Chernobyl reactor
10
Beef is making a comeback – does it fit into a healthy diet?
