Space solar power offers a way to harness the virtually unlimited supply of solar power in space, where power is constantly available without being subject to day/night cycles, seasons and cloud cover.
Caltech’s Space Solar Power Project (SSPP) will launch a prototype called Solar Power Space Demonstrator (SSPD)which includes several key elements of an ambitious plan to get solar power into space.
When 100% operational, the SSPP will deploy a series of modular space components that will collect sunlight, convert it into electricity, and transmit it wirelessly over long distances wherever needed, including those that don’t. currently have no access to a reliable power source.
Momentus Space’s Vigoride space tug, aboard a SpaceX rocket as part of the Transporter 6 mission, transports the 50 kg SSPD into space. It consists of three main experiments, each tasked with testing a different key technology from the project:
- DOLCE (Ultra-light composite experience deployable in orbit): A 6ft by 6ft structure demonstrating the architecture, packaging scheme and deployment mechanisms of a modular spacecraft that would eventually form a mile-scale constellation that would serve as a powerhouse.
- SUNRISE: A collection of 32 different types of photovoltaic cells to be able to evaluate the most efficient cell types in the harsh environment of space.
- MAPLE (Microwave Array for Power-transfer Low-Orbit Experiment): A set of flexible, lightweight microwave power transmitters with precise timing that selectively direct power to two different receivers to demonstrate wireless power transfer over distances in space.
A fourth additional component of the SSPD is an electronic box connected to the Vigoride computer which controls the three experiments.
The SSPP began in 2011 after philanthropist Donald Bren, president of the Irvine Company and lifelong member of the Caltech board of directors, learned of the potential of solar power generation from space in an article. from Popular Science magazine. Intrigued by the potential of solar power in space, Bren contacted Caltech President Jean-Lou Chameau to discuss creating a research project on solar power in space. In 2013, Bren and his wife Brigitte Bren, a Caltech administrator, agreed to make the donation to fund the project. The first of Caltech’s donations (which would eventually exceed $100 million to fund the project and endowed chairs) was made that year through the Donald Bren Foundation, and the research began.
For many years I dreamed of how space solar power could solve some of humanity’s most pressing challenges. Today, I’m thrilled to help the brilliant scientists at Caltech make that dream a reality.
Donald Bren
It will take about 10 minutes for the rocket to reach the desired altitude. The rocket then sends the Momentus spacecraft into orbit. Caltech’s team on Earth plans to conduct its experiments on the SSPD within weeks of launch.
Some test items will be done quickly.
We plan to order the deployment of DOLCE within days of accessing the Momentus SSPD. We should know immediately if DOLCE works.
Sergio Pellegrino, co-director of the SSPP
Significant investment in space solar energy is also seriously considered in Europe. China is testing the first real ground installation.
More information: spacesolar.caltech.edu
Via www.caltech.edu
