Microwave facilitated atmospheric energy projection system

Abstract

The Atmospheric Energy Projection System (AEPS) projects electrical/thermal energy using microwave radiation at the resonant frequency of oxygen. The radiation excites a column through the ambient atmosphere to a temperature such that air within the column is converted from an insulator to a conducting channel or focused medium. Electrical current is then applied to the channel to transmit an electric charge a predetermined distance. Rapid release of pulses of 60 GHz microwave radiation at a field strength below that for breakdown for the waveguide feeding the antenna or at the antenna aperture creates a channel without premature plasma generation. Once the channel is energized sufficiently, an electric charge is released into the channel and flows down it from the source to a solid the channel intersects. If no solid intrudes the charge diffuses harmlessly at the end of the heated channel as the channel cools back to the ambient temperature. Channel duration is a function of cross-sectional area, and channel length is a function of the amount of 60 GHz microwave energy radiated into the volume of interest. Radiated energy to make the channel is a function of the power available and microwave source used. Shorter ranges require less power to create the channel. Amount of electrical charge released depends on desired range and amount of energy needed at the end of the channel. Arrays of antennas are positioned around a central electrode. Multiple arrays of antennas and electrodes are positioned around a space forming a secure transmission area.