How to focus and direct microwaves?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the feasibility of directing microwaves from a microwave oven magnetron to power a toy helicopter. Participants unanimously agree that attempting to create a directed microwave beam poses significant safety risks, including potential harm to individuals and legal implications. The conversation highlights that while radar technology utilizes directed microwave beams, the power levels required for such applications are dangerous and not suitable for amateur experimentation. Consequently, the thread was closed due to safety concerns.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of microwave technology and magnetrons
  • Knowledge of radar systems and their applications
  • Familiarity with safety regulations regarding high-power microwave devices
  • Basic principles of aerodynamics and helicopter mechanics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research microwave safety standards and regulations
  • Explore the principles of radar technology and its applications
  • Investigate alternative power sources for toy helicopters
  • Learn about the physics of microwave propagation and its limitations
USEFUL FOR

Hobbyists interested in electronics, engineers exploring microwave applications, and safety regulators concerned with high-power microwave technologies.

SummerFuse
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I am interested in building a microwave powered toy helicopter purely for the fun of it. As we have discovered in our initial research, it isn't possible to direct the microwaves from a microwave oven magnetron too far. I know that those microwaves are of a similar wavelength (or is it?) What are my options?

By the way, we haven't started building yet.
 
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A directed beam of microwaves it called radar. But a beam of radar powerful enough to run a helicopter would be a great danger if it hit someone's eye.

Dangerous topics are against PF rules.
 
Welcome to PF!

Yikes! What you propose is very dangerous and probably illegal and very dangerous. I urge you not to attempt it because you have very good odds of injuring or killing yourself. Per PF rules (for safety and liability reasons), this thread is closed.
 
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