also be used and the transmitted power level would be 2-5 kW. The laser demonstrator would test a subscale version of a laser system for a future operational Powersat with power levels on the order of 1-2 kW, for example. (Figure 7) In addition, the laser demonstrator would facilitate the first space-to-ground experiments. Precise definition and configuration of the Astro-SPAS mission would be based on the results of the ASAP mission and progress of the ground laser development work. Options for Cooperation and Participation with other Countries • Current US, Japanese and CIS activities in this area are far more advanced than those in Europe. However, there is strong overlap between the proposed experiments in these countries with those discussed in this study. Because future Powersat and SPS systems will inevitably require international users beyond Europe, it would be prudent to explore cooperation and participatory programmes at an early stage. While Europe could undertake all of the proposed activities, it might be more advantageous to conduct them within an internationally coordinated framework. • Cooperation or participation would also help develop a constituency of support, especially if efforts were focussed on one or two specific experiments. The ASAP demonstrator could act as such a focus, and it already has received some interest from U.S. organisations. • The activities of the Commonwealth of Independent States are considered to be more extensive than in Europe, although relatively little information is available. Therefore, additional Powersat activities should include an assessment of the former Soviet capabilities to avoid possible loss of their experience. The cost of liberating this information, through a joint study effort, might be small to Europe and produce disproportional benefits.
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