SPACE-BASED

SOLAR POWER
(SBSP)
WHAT IS THIS
SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION?
Space-based solar panel energy is basically a solar panel that is in space to
collect the concentrated sun rays. to convert it into energy (Sheikh). Energy-
transmitting satellites in space with solar panels gather continuous, high-
intensity solar radiation by reflecting massive amounts of it onto smaller solar
collectors using enormous mirrors in space ("Space-Based Solar Power"). Then,
in a safe and controlled manner, the energy is wirelessly delivered to Earth as
either a microwave or laser beam, according the previous source.

HOW DOES IT WORK

Reflectors or inflated mirrors are used to gather solar
energy in space, which is then transmitted to solar cells
or heaters for thermal systems (Sheikh). According to
the previous source, since there is never a night in space,
the solar panels continuously absorb sunlight, producing
quantities of electricity. There is 2 types of space-based
solar panels, microwave and laser (Sheikh).

PROS:
Low starting expenses, ranging from
$500 million to $1 billion ("Space-Based
Solar Power").
Self-assembling single launches for each
THE FUTURE:
laser-transmitting satellite would
significantly reduce costs and dangers I think the likelihood of space-
("Space-Based Solar Power"). based solar power (SBSP)
The laser beam's tiny diameter would being used in the future is
make ground implementation easier and increasing. It is likely that SBSP
less expensive ("Space-Based Solar will be used in the future to
Power"). provide a clean and renewable

CONS: source of energy. The

Lasers in space raise a number of
concerning safety issues, such as
blindness and weaponization ("Space-
Based Solar Power").
Satellites that transmit lasers would
have difficulty beaming power over thick
clouds and rain ("Space-Based Solar
Power").
Since the spacecraft is so far from Earth,
repairs would be all but impossible
("Space-Based Solar Power").
development of SBSP is still in
its early stages, but the
potential benefits are
significant. This is because
SBSP could help to reduce our
reliance on fossil fuels and
mitigate climate change. It
could also provide a clean and
reliable source of energy for
developing and developed
countries.