Space-Based Solar Power Gets Practical
Space-Based Solar Power Gets Practical IEEE Spectrum
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Space-Based Solar Power Gets Practical
Introduction
The concept of space-based solar power, which involves placing solar panels in space to collect unlimited electricity and beam it to Earth, has long been considered an ideal solution for clean and continuous energy. However, the cost, complexity, and risks associated with assembling large arrays in Earth orbit have hindered its implementation. Despite these challenges, there are smaller and more practical possibilities that can be profitable with existing technology.
Star Catcher: Energizing Satellites
Star Catcher, a startup based in Jacksonville, Florida, aims to address the growing need for power for spacecraft. With the predicted increase in the number of satellites in orbit by 2030, there will be a demand for 840 megawatts of electricity per year. Star Catcher plans to use photovoltaic “power node” satellites in Earth orbit to augment the solar power generated by other satellites. These power nodes would beam energy to the satellites’ photovoltaic panels, providing additional power when needed.
Star Catcher has already raised $12.25 million in seed funding and received letters of intent from potential clients. The company plans to launch a small demonstration satellite by the end of 2025 and potentially deploy 200 power node satellites in the future.
Potential and Costs
While the technical feasibility of space-based solar power is generally accepted, the economic viability remains uncertain. Some experts believe that starting small and assessing market growth is a wise approach. Others see potential in using orbital power for remote locations on Earth. However, it is unlikely to become a global power source in the near future.
Despite the challenges, Star Catcher and other companies in the space-based solar power industry continue to pursue their goals. The success of these ventures will depend on their ability to overcome technical and economic obstacles.
Conclusion
Space-based solar power offers a promising solution for clean and continuous energy. While there are challenges to overcome, smaller-scale applications like Star Catcher’s power node satellites show potential for practical and profitable implementation. Continued research and development in this field will be crucial in realizing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to clean energy and climate action.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
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SDGs Addressed or Connected to the Issues
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- SDG 13: Climate Action
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Specific Targets Based on the Article’s Content
- SDG 7.2: Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix
- SDG 9.4: Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable
- SDG 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
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Indicators Mentioned or Implied in the Article
- Percentage of renewable energy in the global energy mix
- Investment in sustainable infrastructure
- Integration of climate change measures in national policies
Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix | Percentage of renewable energy in the global energy mix |
| SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable | Investment in sustainable infrastructure |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning | Integration of climate change measures in national policies |
Explanation:
1. The issues highlighted in the article are related to space-based solar power, which aligns with SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) as it focuses on promoting renewable energy sources. Additionally, the article mentions the need to upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries, which connects to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). Furthermore, the article discusses the integration of climate change measures into policies, which relates to SDG 13 (Climate Action).
2. Based on the article’s content, the specific targets that can be identified are SDG 7.2 (Increase substantially the share of renewable energy in the global energy mix), SDG 9.4 (Upgrade infrastructure and retrofit industries to make them sustainable), and SDG 13.2 (Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning).
3. The article mentions indicators such as the percentage of renewable energy in the global energy mix, investment in sustainable infrastructure, and the integration of climate change measures in national policies. These indicators can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets.
Source: spectrum.ieee.org
