Abstract
The proposal to obtain electrical energy from the sun by means of an enormous solar cell array positioned in space at synchronous orbit altitude places a challenging requirement upon the means of converting this energy info microwave\orm so that it can be relayed to the earth’s surface. Crossed-field device technology is con-sistent with the needs for high efficiency, long life, and for either modest or very high power levels in the dc to rf energy conversion process. A dc to rf energy conversion efficiency of 93% and an overall efficiency of 86% have been demonstrated in a high power magnetron. Continuous power over 400 kW at 3000 MHz and an efficiency of 76% has been obtained from the Amplifron, a crossed-field amplifier device. The development of a pure-metal, secondary emitter cathode provides long life capability. Newly developed permanent magnet material provides the high magnetic fields needed for high efficiency with low resulting weight.

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