In a major breakthrough for space-based solar power, a California Institute of Technology (Caltech) test satellite has transmitted and received wireless power in space for the first time. The experiment, known as MAPLE (Microwave Array for Power-transfer Low-orbit Experiment), consisted of several flexible microwave transmitters, conventional components and low-cost technology. Researchers were able to not only receive the signal in space, but also point it at Earth and receive it here.
Technical challenges and solutions
The harsh conditions found in space, including large temperature fluctuations and radiation, place high demands on technology. Despite these challenges, the experiment worked. The researchers were able to gain valuable insights into the technology that solar arrays in space would one day need to withstand.
Future applications and potential
Space-based solar power could be used in the future to continuously convert solar energy into electricity in space and make it available anywhere on Earth. The European Space Agency (ESA) estimates that this could generate hundreds of terawatt-hours (TWh) of clean baseload energy annually starting in 2050, which could help in the transition away from fossil fuels. However, ESA’s first test satellite to explore this technology is not scheduled to launch until 2030.
Next Steps
The Caltech team plans to continue developing and improving the technology. Successfully transmitting electricity in space is an important milestone, but there are still many challenges to overcome before large-scale use of space-based solar power can become a reality. However, the researchers are optimistic that their work can make an important contribution to solving global energy problems.
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