Space-Based Solar Power: Concept for Sustainable Lunar Application

Lorenzo Bichisao, Gongling Sun (2022), JBIS, 75, pp.165-175
Refcode: 2022.75.165

DOI: n/a

Abstract:

Lunar exploration activities and in-situ resource utilization are expected to grow in coming decades. In particular, lunar craters and the poles hold great scientific, economic and strategic value. However, they pose a challenge for solar panels in terms of power generation due to low solar illumination. A sustainable power supply is therefore necessary to ensure the continuity of such activities. This paper explores the feasibility of a satellite in lunar orbit as a means of power generation and transmission to the surface of the Moon. Through trade-off studies of key technologies for space based solar power, we propose a highly efficient satellite which employs a laser beam. A lunar “frozen” operational orbit was selected because it constitutes the best compromise between coverage, pointing accuracy and a number of key parameters. After performing a spacecraft design, we can conclude that such a solar power satellite, while expensive, has a good technology readiness level and could become viable during this decade.

Keywords: Lunar Exploration, Solar Power Satellite, Space Based Solar Power, Wireless Power Transmission