Space Solar has made significant progress in the field of space-based solar power. Their recent achievement of successfully testing their HARRIER 360-degree power beaming technology demonstrator is definitely a step in the right direction towards a more sustainable and affordable energy future.
As we continue to face the challenges posed by climate change, companies like Space Solar are taking the initiative to develop innovative solutions that address these challenges and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
Space-based solar power (SBSP) presents a groundbreaking approach to energy generation. At the forefront of this is Space Solar’s flagship Solar Power Satellite concept, CASSIOPeiA.
The plan is to launch satellites equipped with lightweight solar panels and mirrors to capture and convert sunlight into electricity. This electricity will then be transmitted to a ground station on Earth using high-frequency radio waves, providing a continuous and reliable source of clean energy, 24/7 and through all seasons.
Space Solar’s HARRIER demonstrator proves a core component of the CASSIOPeiA Solar Power Satellite. They have developed the world’s first 360-degree wireless power transmission system, which is a core component of the CASSIOPeiA Solar Power Satellite. This breakthrough technology demonstrates a novel approach to energy beaming beyond Earth’s surface.
The HARRIER technology eliminates the need for large rotating joints by enabling the transmission of power in all directions, ensuring unmatched reliability and performance.
The company has completed an impressive test campaign of HARRIER at Queen’s University, Belfast. During the campaign, they showcased the system’s innovative capabilities, including wireless power beaming. One of the most noteworthy features demonstrated was the 360-degree Beam Steering, which showed the system’s unique ability to steer the energy beam in all directions, ensuring a continuous power supply regardless of orientation.
They also highlighted the Retrodirective Control System, which illustrated precise pointing and beam control for safe and optimal energy transmission. Lastly, the demonstration included the characterisation of beam form, validating results against mathematical models to optimise system design.
The HARRIER 0.5m diameter demonstrator is just the beginning of an exciting development in space-based solar power technology. The plans are to scale up to a 1.7 km diameter system that can deliver GW-scale power and a range of products being developed for terrestrial applications.
The successful testing of HARRIER represents a world first in space-based solar power technology and paves the way for the development of CASSIOPeiA as the most capable and affordable Solar Power Satellite design to date. With its hyper-modular design, versatility in orbit options, and incorporation of High Concentration PhotoVoltaics (HCPV) for enhanced efficiency, CASSIOPeiA promises to revolutionise the way we harness solar energy from space.
Space Solar is committed to providing sustainable and reliable energy solutions for the world. Innovations like HARRIER and CASSIOPeiA are driving us towards a future where clean, renewable energy is accessible to all, and that ultimately leads to a safer and more secure world.
“This successful test is a really important milestone on the way to making space-based solar power a reality. Safe, wireless, 360-degree energy transmission is a game changer and demonstrates the UK’s leading position in this new energy revolution, quite literally harnessing the power of space to benefit life on Earth,” said Dr Paul Bate, Chief Executive of the UK Space Agency.
