Japan works toward space-based solar plant
DOI: 10.1063/PT.5.028875
Telegraph : The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and Japan Space Systems are working together on a space-based solar panel array to provide power on Earth. The Space Solar Power System (SPSS) would consist of a spacecraft with a screen of solar panels almost 2 km2 in size. A system comprising solar cells and antennas would convert the electricity generated into microwaves and then transmit the microwaves to Earth. The advantage of a space-based solar panel is that it would not be affected by weather and could be positioned to always face the Sun. One SPSS unit could generate about the same amount of energy as a nuclear reactor, according to Daisuke Goto of JAXA. The project presents challenges, however, and could take 30 years to launch.
