From Space.com: "Space-based solar power may be one step closer to reality, thanks to this key test (video)." From the lede:
A first-of-its-kind lab demonstration shows how solar power transmission from space could work.
The demonstration, carried out by U.K.-based startup Space Solar, tested a special beaming device that can wirelessly transmit power 360 degrees around. That would be important for a potential future space-based power station, as its position toward the sun and Earth would change over the course of each day due to our planet's rotation.
The demonstrator is a key component of the CASSIOPeiA space-based solar power plant concept that is being developed by Space Solar. The company envisions that CASSIOPeiA could be in space within a decade, providing gigawatts of clean energy much more efficiently than solar plants on Earth.
Cool as this is, I would note that Tesla was demonstrating broadcast power 100 years ago.
Fingers crossed, but I'm still skeptical that they'll make the required investment.
ReplyDeleteI wonder how many protected birds it will fry with the power delivery system?
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