atmospheric density effects on airfoils

A laser beam providing a thermal expansion wave ahead.

Brian Whatcott Altus, OK

On Thu, 23 Jun 2005 21:20:33 -0400, "Juan Jimenez"
wrote:

If I remember correctly, there has been some research done as to the effects
of a strong magnetic field at the forward end of an aircraft to decrease
drag. I don't know how it works, but I remember reading the concept was
being considered to reduce heat on the hypersonic aircraft airframes.

"TravisRogers" wrote in message
...
Hi All,

The density of air changes notably with changes in temperature which
results in differences in lift to an airfoil. After putting on my mad
scientist cap, I got to wondering -- are there any other methods of
altering the density of air? Perhaps using radiation of a particular
wavelength (from radio to gamma) or other perhaps other methods?

In particular, I'm wondering if it is possible to change the density of a
specific predetermined volume of the atmosphere. The idea is to create an
area of the atmosphere that is far too thin or far too thick to be
compatible with an airfoil, thus denying the area to (terrorist) aircraft.

This whole thing sounds pretty far out there but it's amusing to think
about. Any thoughts?