How Does Space-Based Solar Power Get To Earth?
The possibility of capturing solar energy in space and transferring it to Earth would make it possible to collect energy almost indefinitely and would help allay concerns that solar energy projects are being harmed by fossil fuels. On top of that, it would help negate the effects of shadows and clouds on the collection of solar energy with solar panels. But precisely how do we bring the energy we gather in space back to Earth? Well, there are currently two methods that scientists are working to use: laser-based and microwave-based.
The efforts to
capture solar energy in space are far from limited, though. Use solar power to
generate near-endless energy in space, and it's likely space agencies will turn
to solar energy to help power moon bases as more countries strive to explore
the lunar south pole in a search for water.
However, it is also essential to locate a means of bringing that power
back to Earth's surface. Especially as we continue to see growing concerns over
climate change and the effects of generating power with fossil fuels. Capturing power in space is simple.
Without clouds or
other hindrances to stop the solar energy from hitting solar panels, we just
need to put the hardware in place and wait for the energy to build up. However, transferring it through the
atmosphere and clouds is another story.
But that's a problem scientists have been cracking away at for years,
and this is how they plan to do it.
Microwaves provide
constant energy delivery