China develops satellite power system to support future space weapons

Chinese scientists have developed a breakthrough satellite power system that overcomes longstanding challenges in creating space-based particle beam weapons. Particle beams—high-speed streams of atoms or subatomic particles—have been viewed as a powerful tool for disabling enemy satellites and missiles due to their immense kinetic and thermal energy. However, previous attempts were hindered by the inability to combine the enormous energy output required (megawatts) with the ultra-precise synchronization needed for effective operation. The new prototype, developed by a team led by Su Zhenhua at DFH Satellite Co, achieved a record 2.6 megawatts of pulsed power with synchronization accuracy within 0.63 microseconds, significantly surpassing existing systems that typically produce less than 1 MW and synchronize only to about 1 millisecond. Beyond military applications, this technology promises to enhance various civilian space systems, including lidar, laser communications, advanced ion thrusters, microwave remote sensing, space-based radar, and electronic warfare capabilities. The development is