A solar power station in space? Here's how it would work — and the benefits it could bring

[Admin]

Space-based solar power is one of the technologies to feature in the government's Net Zero Innovation Portfolio.

A solar power station in space? Here's how it would work — and the benefits it could bring : Read more

 

[Gregg]

When was this article written?

Says it was published 2 hours ago.

The "Original Article" Link says it was published in March.

The author is talking about how it will take many shuttle flights:

"Importantly, assembling even just one space-based solar power station will require many space shuttle launches.................
Space shuttles are not currently reusable, though companies like SpaceX are working on changing this."

Shuttle hasn't flown for 10 years or more.

This article is ancient...why was it published here, now? Did anyone read it first?

 

[publiusr]

Solaren is looking at this…and Gene Meyers of Space Island Group. Garretson, Snead, Mankins and others.

 

[billslugg]

Here is the study. It says the transmitting antenna will be 1.7 km in diameter, 37,000 km out in space, beaming to a 6x12 km rectenna located offshore in the British Isles. The energy density at the receiving end will be 245 W/m^2 of 2.45 GHz radio waves.
At our end the FWHM (Full width half maximum) of the beam would have to be no more than 6km to match the antenna. From a distance of 37,000 km this implies a beam divergence of .02 degree. Recall that the Voyager dish has a beam divergence of .5 degree. No mention in the article how they are going to achieve such a narrow beam.

Space based solar power: derisking the pathway to net zero (publishing.service.gov.uk)

 

[publiusr]

Combine it with this new SPACE FORGE from Wales…

 

[billslugg]

Space Forge looking for their first flight later this year. Possibly producing crystals or new alloys. Best of luck to them.