Space-based Solar Power

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Technology Roadmap Sections and Deliverables

  • 2SSP - Space-based Solar Power

We’ve chosen the acronym 2SSP to represent our technology of Space-based Solar Power. The 2 in our acronym implies the system level, within the level 1 system of renewable energy source​. Our level 2 system level can be broken down into level 3 subsystems (high-efficiency solar panels​, wireless power transfer, etc.) and level 4 components (photovoltaic materials​, antenna structures, etc.).

Roadmap Overview

The working principle of Space-based Solar Power is depicted in the below.

Space-based solar power article.png

This technology transforms solar radiation using a spacecraft with solar panels, then wirelessly transmits it. The energy is then captured by a receiver and converted to electricity before storage and/or distribution.​

A large solar array would be used to take advantage of the higher intensity sunlight outside of a planet's atmosphere using existing solar panel technology, then the electricity would be converted to an advantageous frequency for wirelessly transmitting long distances in a focused and steerable way – a key technical challenge. Finally, it would be received and converted back to electricity at the ground station or satellite for use.​

Potential Use Cases: ​

Simplify energy delivery to remote areas ​

Provide more consistent solar power to high latitudes​

Provide disaster relief to areas with damaged infrastructure​

Recharge other satellites on orbit


Design Structure Matrix (DSM) Allocation

DSM SPS.png

Roadmap Model using OPM

OPM SPS.png
OPM2 SPS.png

Figures of Merit

FOM SPS.png

Key Equations SPS.png


References

[1] Pereira, R. A. M., & Carvalho, N. B. (2022). Quasioptics for increasing the beam efficiency of wireless power transfer systems. Scientific Reports, 12(1), 21138. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-022-25471-0

[2] NASA. (2023, October 5). New study updates NASA on space-based solar power. NASA. https://www.nasa.gov/organizations/otps/space-based-solar-power-report/

[3] European Space Agency. 2023. Space-based solar power: seeking ideas to make it a reality. ESA. https://www.esa.int/Enabling_Support/Preparing_for_the_Future/Discovery_and_Preparation/Space-based_solar_power_seeking_ideas_to_make_it_a_reality