Visual Electromagnetic Intensifier
The Visual Electromagnetic Intensifier is similar to the Orbital Nightcloak in that a large network of satellites are required for the weapon's operation. However, unlike the Nightcloak, which freezes the world into submission, this weapon boils the targeted planet. The Intensifier intercepts the incoming light, and enhances and focuses it in order to achieve this effect. This experimental weapon entered the Imperial inventory just after the Battle of Yavin. This custom ordnance also features the same problems experienced by the Nightcloak: nothing smaller than an Imperial Star Destroyer is required to transport the satellites, time required to deploy the network, and the linkage detachment weakness (where if enough satellites are destroyed by fighters or surface based anti-orbital defences, the network collapses). As of shortly after the Battle of Yavin, work began on integrating dummy satellites into the network to help confound the enemy. Additionally, efforts were initiated on designing the system to be modular; which would allow its continued operation should a section of it be destroyed.
Sources: ISB***Pg 5, 67
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