US scientists are the first in the world to transfer solar energy from space to Earth

For the first time ever, scientists have been able to transmit solar energy collected in space to Earth. Researchers at the California Institute of Technology succeeded.

Here's What We Know

A 50-kilogram instrument called the Space Solar Power Demonstrator (SSPD-1), mounted on a Momentus Vigoride satellite chassis, was used for the job. It was sent into space in early 2023 on a SpaceX rocket.

The demonstrator is equipped with the MAPLE module. It is the tool used to collect solar energy. It then converts it into microwave radiation before transmitting it to Earth, using a phased antenna.

MAPLE has LEDs on the walls. When energy was transmitted from one wall to the other, they lit up. Unfortunately, a weak signal was transmitted to Earth. It was not even enough to "light up" the LED. Nevertheless, the main objective of the experiment was to prove that the process itself works.

In addition to MAPPLE, the SSPD-1 demonstrator is equipped with two other modules, but they do not take part in the transmission of energy to Earth. ALBA is used to evaluate photovoltaic cells in outer space, while DOLCE deploys solar panels.

If scientists can transfer solar energy from space to Earth, it will make it possible to provide clean energy in areas without energy infrastructure. For example, in natural disaster areas.

Source: Gizmodo