AFRL commander visits lab exhibit Published April 19, 2007 COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. -- Maj. Gen. Ted F. Bowlds, Air Force Research Laboratory commander (right) operates a computer program that allows him to destroy a ballistic missile with a relay mirror-laser combination. Explaining the program is 1st Lt. Brian Spanbauer. The lieutenant is assigned to AFRL's Directed Energy Directorate at Kirtland Air Force Base, N.M. Six of the AFRL's technology directorates were at this corporate exhibit that featured more than 100 displays. Colorado Springs was the site for the 23rd National Space Symposium. Held in mid-April, the symposium is considered to be the premier U.S. space policy and program forum.