microwave distorted by non-linear space plasma interactions in LEO. As a result, this mandates a microwave space experiment at high power levels. For lasers, plasma interactions are not a concern, therefore low power levels can be used. Precise tracking and beam pointing over enormous distances is the primary requirement. However, these requirements are enveloped by the current SILEX intra-space communications experiment planned for launch on Artemis. Therefore, a laser ASAP is not considered worthwhile to propose. Instead, initial laser efforts should be put into development work for a high-efficiency/light-weight/high-power laser system for the advanced demonstrator activities. • Throughout the course of the launcher and platform evaluation, it was deemed that the German Astro-SPAS would be the most suitable option for an advanced demonstrator programme with a 2002-2005 launch date. Even though it is dependent on the Shuttle and is restricted to a mission of about one week, it would probably be significantly less expensive than building a dedicated spacecraft and launching it on Ariane 5. In addition, as current US Powersat efforts seem to be moving in the direction of a Shuttle launched free-flyer option, Astro-SPAS could be offered as a suitable platform for international cooperative programme. • The Astro-SPAS Demonstrator itself would be for either a microwave or laser experiment. The microwave demonstrator would be essentially a subscale version of an operational Powersat, demonstrating orbital control concepts for close formation orbiting. A full-scale rectenna would also be used and the transmitted power level would be 2-5 kW. The laser demonstrator would test out a subscale version of a laser system for a future operational Powersat, up to 1-2 kW of power, for example. In addition, the laser demonstrator would facilitate the first space-to-ground experiments.
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