Do you think Space-Based Solar Power is possible?
why/why not?
http://www.nss.org/settlement/ssp/library/nsso.htm
2007-10-14 16:33:48 · 5 answers · asked by Philip Augustus 3 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Astronomy & Space
Technically, its possible. Using solar powr in space is routine--spacecraft an dsatellites mostly do just that. And we know how to beam power to earth by microwave.
The question is whether its feasible. You'd need a massive space structure to do this. At current launch costs--its out of the question. However, launch costs are likely to come down sharply in the next 10-15 years--possibly enough to make this practical.
2007-10-14 17:04:31 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 0⤋
Just because something is possible, doesn't mean it's a good idea. Yes, it would be possible. If a space elevator is ever built, we could run power lines down the side. The problem is, it's not worth the trouble. It costs so much energy to make solar panels and then launch them into space it wouldn't be worth it.
2007-10-15 00:53:15 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
It's possible but not likely. The usual candidates are lasers or microwaves beamed to the ground. The problems are with current technology it would cost more to maintain the space equipment than the power is worth and it would be bad news if the aiming equipment malfunctioned and started burning down cities.
2007-10-14 16:45:19 · answer #3 · answered by Michael da Man 6 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Guide To Solar Power - http://SolarPower.duebq.com/?RXz
2017-04-02 20:49:11 · answer #4 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
The microwave transport suggested by employing yet another answerer is genuine. it could prevail--you will use microwave frequency lasers--very precise and with very low losses. I t could additionally be secure--the beam does no longer disperse and on the exterior, probably it could be limited airspace. yet their are actual issues--on being the conceivable heating of super voulumes of air--and conceivable collateral outcomes from that. own opinion--its no longer likely to happpen through fact of changes in technologies. incredibly, the fee of earthboundsolar ability is dropping. area production could be extra effective--however the way issues are shifting, not extra interior your funds. we are going to earnings extra by employing looking basic how you may keep photograph voltaic ability for later (night/cloudy day) use fee effectively.
2016-10-22 11:07:13 · answer #5 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋