Directed Energy (DE)

Directed Energy Short Course by Tonex

Directed Energy is a 2-day course where participants will learn about the many applications of directed energy including its military, commercial and scientific uses.

Directed energy (DE) refers to technologies that produce a concentrated beam of electromagnetic energy, including lasers, microwaves, and particle beams, which can be used for various applications such as military defense, communications, and medical treatments.

The core principle behind directed energy is the conversion of electrical power into electromagnetic waves, which are then directed precisely at a target. This process involves several technical aspects, including energy generation, beam control, and target engagement.

At the heart of most DE systems is the energy source, typically a high-powered laser or microwave generator.

Lasers produce a beam by stimulating a lasing medium—such as gas, crystal, or fiber—inside a resonator cavity. The energy from an external source, like an electrical current or a chemical reaction, excites the atoms within the lasing medium, causing them to emit photons.

These photons bounce between mirrors at each end of the cavity, amplifying through a process called stimulated emission, until a powerful, coherent beam of light exits the resonator.

In the case of high-power microwaves, energy is converted into radio frequency waves via devices like magnetrons or klystrons, which are then focused into a narrow beam.
Beam control is another critical component of DE systems, which involves shaping, pointing, and maintaining the stability of the energy beam.

Advanced optical systems, such as adaptive optics, are used to correct any distortions caused by atmospheric interference or thermal effects, ensuring that the beam remains tightly focused on its target. This precision is essential for maximizing the energy delivery to the target while minimizing energy loss.

Additionally, target engagement involves the interaction of the directed energy beam with the target. The impact can cause a range of effects depending on the type of energy and the target material.

For example, a laser can heat, melt, or vaporize material, while high-power microwaves can disrupt electronic systems by inducing currents in circuits.

Directed Energy Short Course by Tonex

Directed Energy Short Course is a 2-day introduction to electromagnetic energy sources, such as microwaves, radiofrequency, lasers, and sound energy.

This course is especially beneficial for participants who want to see the “big picture” in order to communicate with technical as well as non-technical individuals.

Directed Energy Short Course covers the most important aspects of directed energy technology without getting too involved in the technical nitty gritty.

Participants will learn the basics of directed energy, and how many of its use cases are in the realm of directed energy weapon research.

Additionally, participants will learn about directed energy solutions for commercial applications such as increased precision and reliability from laser tools.

Many military analysts believe the continued development of directed energy weapons is crucial for the U.S. Department of Defense, especially in the area of defeating a range of threats, including drones and missiles.