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Space energy – pros and cons

Collecting energy from space and transmitting it wirelessly was first described by Isaac Asimov in the story “The Wandering Mind . ” Scientists became interested in this idea in the 1970s. The very first was a Czech-American engineer and Dr. Peter Glazer . After numerous studies, various concepts have been identified that use all sorts of forms of principles for the production, transformation and transmission of energy. It was technically possible to implement this concept, but from a financial point of view, it was unrealistic, so the research did not lead to anything.

How does space solar energy work?

Cosmic solar energy is energy from the sun that is harvested from devices in outer space. The collected energy is then used to either power the same device, the space station, or is transported back to Earth.

Currently, the conversion of solar energy into electricity takes place using photovoltaic cells in geostationary orbit around the Earth. The power is then transmitted using electromagnetic waves at 2.45 GHz to dedicated receiving stations on Earth, which convert the energy back into electricity used on the local network.

To create modular systems for mass production, it is required to reduce the cost of cosmic energy satellites . There are several projects based on the idea that a photovoltaic system would consist of a lightweight, deployable structure made up of many small “solar satellites” that connect together.

The advantages of space energy

  • Continuity . One of the main benefits of a global power plant is continuous power generation. Unlike the day and night cycles of solar panels on Earth, space energy will constantly be guided by the sun.
  • The second advantage is the wireless transmission of energy anywhere in the world. This will eliminate the problem of globalization of the electrical grid and will allow the dynamic distribution of electricity to the regions where it is needed.
  • Technology development . The space energy industry is developing rapidly, and improvements will only accelerate in the future. Innovations in quantum physics and nanotechnology have the potential to improve the efficiency of solar panels and double the electrical output of solar energy systems.
  • Renewability . Space energy is a renewable energy source. It can be used all over the world. We cannot exhaust the universal energy, unlike some other sources of energy. Space energy will be available as long as we have the sun.
  • Since you will use the one generated by our sun as electricity, your electricity bills will decrease . It is also possible to receive payments for excess energy that you export back to the grid.

 

Cons of space energy

  • Cost . The initial purchase cost of a solar system is quite high. This includes payment for solar panels, inverter, batteries, wiring and installation. However, space energy is constantly evolving, so it is safe to assume that prices will decline in the future.
  • Dependence on the weather . Adequate solar color is required to efficiently harvest solar energy. The space energy base can function on rainy or sunny days, but the efficiency of such a system decreases. However, projects are currently being developed that will allow the global power plant to operate at the same performance in any weather.
  • A lot of space is required . The more electricity you want to generate, the more solar panels you will need. Solar PV panels require a lot of space, and some roofs are not large enough to install enough solar panels.
  • Environmental pollution . Although the pollution associated with space energy is much less compared to other energy sources, pollution is possible. The transportation and installation of solar systems is associated with greenhouse gas emissions. Also, some toxic materials and hazardous products used in the solar photovoltaic system manufacturing process can indirectly affect the environment.
  • Outer space poses many potential hazards to solar panels: space debris, cosmic dust, asteroids, and extreme solar radiation. All of this can be very detrimental to the integrity of the system.

Output

Space energy is a highly complex integrated system that requires numerous significant advances in modern technology. More than 20 years ago, a technological map was developed that defines potential ways to achieve the popularization of space energy.

Perhaps, in the near future, people will be able to place some kind of mechanism in outer space in order to continuously receive energy and transfer it to Earth. And having received energy on Earth through the rectenna , people will be able to distribute energy using standard methods. Scientists are looking for ways to optimize the operation of a space power plant: construction, sending mechanisms into space, tracking systems and timely repairs.

Scientists predict that universal power plants are unlikely to replace traditional sources of material. But it works very well as an alternative or backup source. The space power plant could be turned into a back-up point for the use of energy in vital institutions. The development of such a method of obtaining energy will greatly simplify the life of the entire society. It remains only to wait for the correct implementation of this idea.

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