Solar power satellite concept

Journal Article · · AIAA Stud. J.; (United States)

OSTI ID:6777469

Glaser, P E

A method to utilize solar energy through solar power satellites (SPS) is presented. The electricity produced by solar energy conversion will be fed to microwave generators forming part of a planar, phased-array transmitting antenna, which in turn is designed to direct a microwave beam to one or more receiving antennas. Variations in solar power output due to eclipses, equinox periods and other predictable interruptions, are expected to range from 1.309 kW/sq m to 1.399 kW/sq m. Technological options for solar energy conversion, including photovoltaic and thermal-electric processes are described. Attention is also given to the assembly and maintenance of SPS, economic and environmental implications, as well as microwave biological effects and other impacts, which include thermal pollution, land despoilment and resource consumption.

• Research Organization: Arthur D. Little, Inc., Cambridge, MA
• OSTI ID: 6777469
• Journal Information: AIAA Stud. J.; (United States), Journal Name: AIAA Stud. J.; (United States) Vol. 17; ISSN AISJA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140500* -- Solar Energy Conversion
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS
CONVERSION
COST ESTIMATION
DESIGN
ENERGY CONVERSION
ENERGY SYSTEMS
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
MICROWAVE POWER TRANSMISSION
ORBITAL SOLAR POWER PLANTS
POLLUTION
POWER PLANTS
POWER TRANSMISSION
SOLAR ENERGY CONVERSION
SOLAR POWER PLANTS
THERMAL POLLUTION