Solar is helping expand our knowledge of the universe by powering some of the most interesting space exploration and discoveries of our generation. We all know that alternative energy sources require huge energy storage systems, possess limited potential, are very expensive, and/or harm the environment. To the contrary, space solar power is one potential energy source that has unlimited potential, is environmentally friendly and can be cost-competitive once the process of harnessing it has been refined.

Is There a Demand?

What could be more perfect that solar panels in space? We will be able to avoid many of the challenges of solar panels on Earth, such as poor light conditions and land availability, by building them in space. Although this idea has been tossed around since the 1970’s, the concept is now being vigorously revisited. Initially deemed too expensive to construct, an era of cheaper space travel has made it appear more feasible. This revitalized interest is not only taking place in our country; places like China and India, whose increasing population levels are quickly exceeding their energy resources, are also looking to space for the answer.

How Would it Work?

Building a space solar system would involve the construction of large solar energy collection panels which would collect far more energy units than Earth-based ones, which can be affected by low angles of the sun, inclement weather and nighttime hours. A wireless radio transmitter would then beam the solar energy to Earth to be received by antennas near areas where large amounts of power are typically used, before being converted to electric power. This could be accomplished at a cost close to what consumers are paying now.

We all know that everywhere in the world, new sources of clean energy are desperately needed. So what have studies about solar panels in space revealed so far? Read on.

• The lifetime of the sun is an estimated 5 billion years, which indicates that space solar power would be a long-term solution to our energy needs.
• Solar power from panels in space would solve many of our greenhouse gas emissions problems.
• The solar energy available in space is billions of times greater than we use today.
• With minimal environmental impact, solar power from space can provide large quantities of energy to each and every person on Earth. It is by far the largest potential energy source available, dwarfing all others combined.
• This type of solar power is available 24/7 in huge quantities, regardless of weather conditions.
• Space solar power can be exported to virtually any place in the world, even to places where there are no electric power grids.
• Exploration and construction of solar panels in space can expand employment opportunities measurably.
• Combining the solar energy already used on spacecraft and proven wireless power transmission methods, we can supply nearly all the electrical needs of our planet.
• Space solar power will provide the ultimate energy independence for the nations that develop it.

Solar panels in space can also provide measurable advantages over other available sources of energy. Solar energy from space:

• does not emit greenhouse gases;
• does not depend on valuable fresh water resources;
• does not compete for farm land or depend on natural gas derived fertilizer;
• will not produce hazardous waste;
• does not provide easy targets for terrorists;
• does not require environmentally harmful mining operations;
• will not require dependence on foreign oil providers to meet energy needs.

While there are not many drawbacks to using solar panels in space, one is surely the developmental costs. But comparing this cost to the cost of not doing it puts everything in perspective. And the nation that garners the lead in harnessing energy in this manner will truly benefit from it for decades to come.