Space-based energies meet various energy needs by using resources beyond Earth’s atmosphere.
What are these resources?
SpaceTech is the most important aspect of developing space-based energies. Space tech helps develop space-based energy in several ways.
Solar Powered Satellites (SPS)
Solar power satellites act as cosmic power plants, using space’s endless sunshine to light up our cities and fuel industries. They consist of large solar arrays, that capture sunlight and convert it into electricity using developed technology. Microwave or laser beams shine this energy down to Earth. Since the 1960s, researchers like Peter Glaser have explored this concept. Programs like NASA’s Space Solar Power Exploratory Research and Technology (SERT) program continue to investigate its benefits.
Uses of Solar Powered satellites
- They generate electricity to power our daily necessities such as telephones, internet and satellite TVs.
- By using solar energy, these satellites can operate for an extended period without needing to be refuelled, making them cheaper and eco-friendly.
- Solar-powered satellites are used for studying the Earth’s atmosphere and weather patterns.
- They are used for space exploration for mapping the surface of other planets.
Nuclear Fusion
Nuclear fusion offers the possibility of clean energy by repeating the process that fuels the sun and stars. In fusion reactions, lightweight atomic nuclei, like hydrogen isotopes, merge to form heavier nuclei, releasing vast amounts of energy. While achieving controlled fusion reactions on Earth remains a challenge, successful fusion could develop energy production, both here and past our atmosphere. For instance, projects like the ITER aim to display maintained fusion reactions. Additionally, companies like TAE Technologies and Commonwealth Fusion Systems are approaching fusion energy, using plasma confinement techniques and high-temperature superconductors. Their efforts help compact and efficient fusion reactors suitable for space applications.
In short, Nuclear fusion has the potential to produce energy without greenhouse gases and very little nuclear waste.
Energy storage solutions for space missions