All Things Darpa
Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (darpa.mil)
This section is for all things DARPA.
Here is a list of 10 things that they created according to Copilot.
The Internet:
Probably the most well-known invention from DARPA, the internet traces its roots back to ARPANET. In 1966, funding was secured to create a computer network, and three years later, ARPANET came online. It wasn’t until the creation of the World Wide Web in 1990 that the internet truly exploded into the ubiquitous utility we know today.
GPS (Global Positioning System):
While we take GPS for granted when navigating with our phones or dedicated SatNav systems, its technology has come a long way since its inception at ARPA. The GPS project was launched in 1973, and it has revolutionized navigation and tracking worldwide.
Stealth Technology:
DARPA played a pivotal role in the development of stealth aircraft, which have the ability to evade radar detection. These advanced technologies have transformed modern warfare and aviation.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs or Drones):
DARPA’s research and funding have contributed significantly to the development of UAVs. These remotely piloted or autonomous aircraft are used for various purposes, including reconnaissance, surveillance, and even delivery services.
Brain-Computer Interface (BCI):
DARPA’s work in BCI has made it possible for subjects to control artificial limbs using their thoughts. This groundbreaking technology has immense potential for medical applications and enhancing human capabilities.
Flat-Screen Displays:
The development of flat-screen displays owes much to DARPA’s research. These displays are now ubiquitous in devices like TVs, monitors, and smartphones.
Voice Interfaces:
DARPA’s contributions to voice interfaces have influenced technologies like Siri and other virtual assistants. These innovations have transformed how we interact with computers and devices.
RISC Computing:
Internet Anonymity (Tor and Onion Routing):
Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS):
MEMS, developed with DARPA’s involvement, are used in various applications, from airbags to inkjet printers. They are also integral to video game controllers like the Wii.
Persistent Optical Wireless Energy Relay (POWER) 😎 LASER TO ELECTRICITY
ACCORDING TO COPILOT:
⚡ POWER Program Overview
Objective: Beam energy wirelessly using lasers, bypassing traditional fuel logistics and infrastructure.
Use Case: Deliver power instantly to remote or contested environments—battlefields, disaster zones, or even space platforms.
🔬 Recent Milestone: PRAD Test
Test Name: POWER Receiver Array Demo (PRAD)
Location: White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico
Achievement:
Beamed 800 watts of laser power over 8.6 km (5.3 miles) for 30 seconds
Transferred over a megajoule of energy during the campaign2
🧠 How It Works
Transmitter: Emits a high-powered infrared laser beam.
Receiver:
Compact aperture captures the beam.
Parabolic mirror reflects it onto dozens of photovoltaic cells.
Converts laser light into usable electricity with ~20% efficiency at short range3
🚀 Strategic Advantages
Rapid Deployment: Receiver built in just 3 months by Teravec Technologies
Scalability: Can be integrated into UAVs or orbital platforms.
Atmospheric Challenge: Test was conducted through the densest part of the atmosphere—proving robustness under harsh conditions3
📈 Next Steps: Phase 2 and Beyond
Vertical Transmission: Beam power upward/downward where atmosphere is thinner.
Relay Networks: Use airborne or orbital relays to extend range and precision.
Ultimate Goal: Deliver 10 kW over 200 km using integrated relays by Phase 3
🍿 Fun Fact
To celebrate the milestone, the team used the beamed energy to make popcorn, a nod to the movie Real Genius
Imagine a network of ground-based laser towers and airborne or orbital relays that form a dynamic energy web, capable of beaming power precisely where it’s needed. Let’s break it down visually and tactically:
🔭 How the POWER Network Would Work
🧱 1. Ground-Based Laser Transmitters
Location: Secure bases, ships, or mobile platforms.
Function: Fire high-powered infrared lasers into the sky.
Tech: Adaptive optics and beam steering to maintain precision over long distances.
🛰️ 2. Airborne or Orbital Relays
Platforms:
High-altitude drones or balloons (e.g., stratospheric platforms)
Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites
Function:
Receive laser energy from ground stations.
Redirect it to other relays or directly to receivers.
Advantage: Bypasses terrain, weather, and line-of-sight issues.
⚡ 3. Receivers (End Users)
Types:
Tactical drones
Remote sensors
Mobile command posts
Survival bunkers or autonomous fallback zones
Tech: Photovoltaic arrays tuned to the laser wavelength.
Output: Converts laser light into usable electricity—on demand.