Solar Energy from Satellites

Co-sponsored by NASA

Solar-powered, space-based satellites may eventually be used to beam energy to earth. The solar energy collected by a solar powered satellite (SPS) would be converted into electricity, then into microwaves. The microwaves could be beamed to the Earth's surface, where they would be received and converted back into electricity by a large array of devices known as a rectifying antenna, or rectenna. This concept is being tested now, and if proven efficient and effective, could change the way we think about energy production and use. This seminar will examine current developments and the feasibility of large-scale investment in this technology.