dep@cosivax.UUCP (David E. Pugh) (03/04/84)
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The articles on mass driver based artillery remind me a a similar
idea I read about a while ago. The idea was to place many (several
hundred) steel rods with retro packs and simple guidance in LEO. When
needed, the rods could start a re-entry, and (given a steel rod
moving a few km/sec) demolish anything it hit. It seems that this
system could be based in the near future, and is very tough (since
each rod would have to be attacked separately).
While I question some aspects of this system (in particular aiming
the rods, even with terminal guidance, is easier said than done, and
the relative cost/benefits of the system), its an interesting idea.
As I recall, the idea was called Project Thor, and was developed
by the same group that produced the High Frontier report.
Any comments ? --David Pugh (uofm-cv!cosivax!dep)