Space to Ground Optical Power Transmission

Abstract

Based on the fact that energy can be transmitted using photons, light sources such as lasers can be used to transport power. Solar radiation is thus a promising means of satisfying future energy demands. Space Power Satellites (SPSs) were demonstrated forty years ago, but only recently has this approach become feasible. A fully optical SPS eliminates the need for heavy, low efficiency photovoltaic cells as the first stage, so more energy can be obtained using very small and light structures. In this paper, the design of an SPS system is investigated. In addition, the effect of the turbulent atmospheric channel is examined.