Submitted by PhyneasPhysicsPhrog t3_zt4amj in space
danielravennest t1_j1eay69 wrote
Reply to comment by ackermann in Northrop Grumman clears key hurdle for space-based solar power by PhyneasPhysicsPhrog
Solar energy in space is 36% stronger than on the ground, and available 24 hours a day rather than 3-8 for locations on the ground. So a panel in space generates a lot more power, and on a predictable schedule.
The trick is to get that power down to a transmission line on Earth at a reasonable cost. The military is interested in this, because they have to bring power to field bases in random locations. Beams are steerable. The current method involves tanker trucks fueling generators at absurdly high cost.
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