METHOD OF SPACE BASED SOLAR POWER EXTRACTION USING MICROWAVES
Aniruddha Chowdhury1, orcid, K. Vijayaraja1
1K.C.G. College of Technology (Autonomous), Anna University, Chennai
Keywords: Space-based solar power extraction, solar power, microwave transmission.
Abstract
Space-based solar power (SBSP) presents a promising solution to meet the increasing global demand for clean and sustainable energy. This abstract outline a novel method for extracting solar power from space through the utilization of microwaves. By leveraging advances in wireless power transmission and space-based infrastructure, this method aims to overcome the limitations of terrestrial solar power generation, such as intermittent sunlight and land constraints. The proposed method involves the deployment of a network of solar power satellites (SPS) in geostationary orbit, equipped with highly efficient solar panels to capture sunlight. The collected solar energy is then converted into microwave radiation using specialized rectifying antennas and microwave transmitters aboard the SPS. These microwaves are beamed towards a receiving station on Earth, which consists of a large rectifying antenna array. At the receiving station, the microwave energy is converted back into electrical energy using high-efficiency rectifiers. The electricity can then be integrated into the existing power grid for immediate distribution and consumption. The use of microwaves allows for long-range wireless power transmission, overcoming the limitations of traditional power transmission methods.
This proposed method offers several advantages. Firstly, by capturing solar energy in space, it eliminates many of the limitations faced by ground-based solar power, such as weather conditions and daylight fluctuations. Moreover, the large surface area available on solar power satellites allows for efficient energy collection. Additionally, the wireless transmission of power minimizes energy losses during distribution, making it a highly efficient and environmentally friendly solution. The feasibility of this method requires advancements in several key areas, including the development of lightweight and cost-effective solar panels, efficient rectifying antennas, and high-power microwave transmitters. Furthermore, extensive research is necessary to ensure the safety and minimal environmental impact of the microwave energy beam during transmission.
