Lasers as weapons

[[censored]]

how close are we to be able to use lasors as weapons?

If this is possible would they be anything like what is on TV/Movies

thanks

laser-impaired

[mmcd]

No Mr. Bond, I expect you to die.

[vulturesrow]

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how close are we to be able to use lasors as weapons?

If this is possible would they be anything like what is on TV/Movies

thanks

laser-impaired

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You could use them as anti-personnel weapons right now. Shining a laser used for targeting at someones eyes will definitely blind them. As far as using them against hard targets, I think they have had some successful tests using a laser on a 747 or some widebody aircraft like that, mostly for use against ballistic missiles. Thats about all I know.

[Zeno]

Two sites with info Test at White Sands

Vehicle-mounted laser

Laser weapons have been in development for decades I think but are bulky weapons or systems, as they must generate a large amount of energy. As for 'ray guns' like in space movies, I think that is a long way off. Though others may be better informed about all this and/or provide links with better information.

-Zeno

[Dov]

This is basically correct.

Lasers as primary weapons are currently in a group of weapons called dazzling weapons whose primary function is to maim and not kill the enemy.

Obviously lasers are used extensively to support other weapon systems in functions like guidance and ranging.

Lasers are not a very efficient way of transferring energy to a target, apparently. I think the main problems right now are with power supplies and heat dissipation.

Also, lasers are extremely focused, limiting their affected area of influence. The trend in today's weaponry seems to be toward mass destruction weapons or special purpose weapons. Lasers are definitely in the second group.

[Ringo]

I recall reading an article - and I forget exactly where - about someone developing a laser that can ionise the air in its path, enabling an electrical current to be passed along it, like a stun gun. It's all very Star Trek..

I'd give my right arm for one of `em ;-)

[DCWildcat]

But can they shoot blue ones yet? They look a lot cooler than the red and green ones.

[Quaalude]

[ QUOTE ]
I recall reading an article - and I forget exactly where - about someone developing a laser that can ionise the air in its path, enabling an electrical current to be passed along it, like a stun gun. It's all very Star Trek..

I'd give my right arm for one of `em ;-)

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linky

There's also one that paralizes. That one and a bunch of other stuff are here.

-Travas

[Quaalude]

[ QUOTE ]
Two sites with info Test at White Sands

Vehicle-mounted laser

Laser weapons have been in development for decades I think but are bulky weapons or systems, as they must generate a large amount of energy. As for 'ray guns' like in space movies, I think that is a long way off. Though others may be better informed about all this and/or provide links with better information.

-Zeno

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Here's another linky.