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First Flight of a Laser Powered Airplane
Today, NASA tested a laser-powered airplane: a 312-gram (11-ounce), 1.5-meter (five-foot) wingspan plane. A laser beam struck the photovoltaic cells that powered the tiny motor that turned its propeller.
Remote-controlled and remote-powered planes don't have to carry their own fuel, batteries or crew, providing more room for scientific instruments.
See Laser Cannon from Mote in God's Eye created by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle in 1974.
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Technovelgy (that's tech-novel-gee!) is devoted to the creative science inventions and ideas of sf authors. Look for the Invention Category that interests you, the Glossary, the Invention Timeline, or see what's New.
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