Solar power, which comes from converting the sun’s energy into electricity, is a newer power source, but importantly an extremely powerful one. The sun is the one source that can provide more energy than our technological and evolving world will ever need, and notably, a renewable resource that won’t run out. Yes, solar power is commonly used on Earth for clean energy, but it is also surprisingly used in outer space, powering space stations and spacecraft. At its roots, the power is harnessed from the sun, the center of our solar system, making it quite appropriate for powering scientific research and development in space and across the world. Since the 1950s, NASA has been a pioneer in advancing solar technology, specifically, using the sun for researching our universe. Today, solar power continues to be integral for space exploration by powering spacecraft while also playing a role in sustainable energy solutions for Earth.
To give an idea of the far-reaching power that solar energy offers, the sun’s light reaches Earth in eight minutes as it travels at the speed of light in the form of electromagnetic radiation. In 1954, silicon was first used as a solar semiconductor, paving the way for solar power to be used in space 4 years later through NASA spacecraft and the commonly used James Webb Space Telescope. Satellites in space use solar panels to have continuous solar power. This is done by using the reflective nature of mirrors to project rays onto smaller solar collectors. Solar panel-equipped, energy-transmitting satellites collect high-intensity, uninterrupted solar radiation by using giant mirrors to reflect vast amounts of solar rays onto smaller solar collectors; then, this radiation is transferred to Earth by a laser beam or microwave. These laser solar satellites provide constant energy by orbiting the sun. They can transfer solar energy to Earth via laser beams, a cleaner way to transfer energy, lowering the environmental impact. Satellites have low starting costs in the $500 million range due to their self-assembling nature, which also lower emissions. Overall, the energy from these satellites can replace fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions, advancing the sustainable energy movement.
Solar power is already a key player in modern space exploration. An example of a spacecraft powered by this solar technology is the International Space Station or ISS. The station uses large solar panels to power its systems. The space station’s solar arrays create around 100 kilowatts, more energy than the station needs, making it a reliable energy provider. Similarly, solar power is critical for using space probes, which rely on solar energy to power scientific research and exploration. An example of this application is the Parker Solar Probe, a NASA space probe used to observe the sun, which uses unique solar panels that can take in ultraviolet rays from the sun.
The ability of space solar power to get energy directly from the sun and transform it wirelessly can help power significant sources while solving greenhouse gas emission problems. Specifically, solar power is more environmentally friendly than oil, coal, or gas, as it doesn’t damage water sources, use land, or produce hazardous waste. Also, compared to other natural power sources, it is constantly available in large quantities, regardless of the presence of clouds or wind. At the same time, with all forms of technology, downsides remain. Several of these satellites’ early models are needed to provide sufficient power, meaning with several needed, costs will increase. Additionally, the lasers that would transmit solar power back to Earth pose concerns about the potential weaponization of laser systems and the challenges of developing these laser systems in harsh environments. Still, the environmental benefits of using solar power in space, along with advancements in low-cost space transportation and access to solar system resources, strongly support the continued development of solar energy for space.
In Orbit 