I've actually been working on a ground based launch platform for automated space mining that uses magnetics and plasma lasers to launch the miners into space. I've got a few drawings and stuff but I haven't published anything yet because there are a few things left to make sure of. Such as, using a plasma laser, how much electricity would you need to pass along the beam to displace air? That kind of thing, but I haven't had time to study up on it yet.