[mdlug-discuss] [mdlug] Automotive technical info wanted (only slightly off topic)

[allen]

Robert Meier wrote:
> Allen, Ray, Garry,
>
>   
>> Note that the space-based solar power generators don't *have* to be
>> photovoltaic ...
>> You could use mirrors to concentrate light on a 'hot spot' and use
>> steam or whatever.
>>     
>
> Skylab successfully tested klystrons.
> The vacuum of near Earth orbit is sufficient to simply build klystrons
> exposed to space, mounted on aimable platforms.
> When heated, a metal "can" of the right shape and size
> (~10cm long and ~6cm diameter) will fluoresce (radiate) microwaves
> aimed in the right direction.
> Like dams, huge assemblies can be built with near total conversion of energy,
> and with very little operating cost.
> Like dam breaks and spillways, there are risks and known solutions.
>   
Now that's a slick idea. Do the conversion from light to microwave in 
one gadget. Not much available on the web about the "photoklystron" though.