11.2 TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS The following are recommended as considerations for risk assessment in developing the system concept, technology development, ground test and flight test. a. The microwave power transmission system can be configured in such a manner as to not require invention or technology breakthrough, however, continuing efforts should be made to take advantage of applicable breakthroughs as they might be developed over the years. b. There are 24 items having significant technology risk for the MPTS which require agressive development programs before high confidence can be established in their implementation. c. The first five most critical items needing technology development in order of priority are: dc-rf Converters and Filters, Materials, Phase Control Subsystems, Waveguides, and Structures. d. Although Manufacturing Modules and Remote Manipulators are in the critical technology category, significant advancement cannot be undertaken until certain characteristics associated with the technology of the first five items are established. e. General existing developments leading to the understanding of biological effects of low and high microwave power densities are important. In addition, specific investigations must be undertaken which are site dependent to a large extent. These should be undertaken as the development and operational sites are identified. f. Attitude control technologies for the operational system interact with beam efficiency, safety and depending on the approach they may result in dynamic loads and materials that will impact the microwave system and components. For flight test systems operating at low orbital altitudes, high angular rates and accelerations lead to significantly more complex implementation than is required for the operational system. These require further in-depth investigation as flight test objectives and their implementation are progressively and more firmly established.
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