Although the concept of a solar energy station in space isn’t a new idea, unlike the past, when it was more of a concept that only seemed possible in a science fiction novel. Today, the idea of building a solar power station in space, that could harvest non-stop power, is becoming an idea that scientists may actually be able to make a real life possibility.
Space doesn’t have any atmosphere, therefore, there are no clouds to block the sun. Also, scientists have explained that in geosynchronous orbits, night doesn’t exist. These are the main problems that affect conventional solar power generation methods on Earth and aren’t an issue in space. Power from the sun can be harvested without interruption 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The U.S., Japan, China and India all have projects in the works that could eventually lead to the development of robots that would assemble solar arrays in space and may one day provide the Earth with enormous amounts of renewable and clean energy. This energy could be delivered wirelessly through methods including microwaves or laser beams.
In fact, some variations of this space-based solar technology could result in up to 1 gigawatt (GW) of energy sent to Earth, which would be enough to power a large city.
Findings of the original study
Dr. Paul Jaffe, a spacecraft engineer at the U.S. Naval research Laboratory, has said that the space solar power concept is scientifically viable. Dr. Jaffe told CNN that “NASA and the U.S. Department of Energy did a study in the late 70s that cost $20 million at the time and looked at it in pretty great depth.” He added that “The conclusion at that time was that there was nothing wrong with the physics but the real question is the economics.”
The price tag is the drawback
The problem with cost is that in order to construct the power-transmitting satellite that would be required, would require several space launches. Considering some space launches can cost up to $40,000 per kilogram, it could cost as much as $20 billion to complete the first space solar energy station. This mean that even though it is possible to accomplish, major funding would be needed to carry out an enterprise of this magnitude.
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