Online Journal of Space Communication
Abstract
Even though the concept of Solar Power Satellites (SPS) was first proposed in 1968, development has not happened because of the massive initial investment in infrastructure required. The principal infrastructure constraint is in the transportation segment. When the space transportation costs are sufficiently low, we can count on the cost of energy from space to be as low as hydroelectric energy. There is no limit to how much energy can be generated; as long as the sun shines, a clean source of energy is available in space. With improved systems of transport, Solar Power Satellites can be the world's next energy source. This paper explores different launch systems that could be developed to provide low cost space transportation for SPS installations. Reconfiguration of a reusable two-stage-to-orbit vehicle based on the technology of the Saturn V is proposed.
Recommended Citation
Nansen, Ralph
(2021)
"Low Cost Access to Space is Key to Solar Power Satellite Deployment,"
Online Journal of Space Communication: Vol. 9:
Iss.
16, Article 12.
Available at:
https://ohioopen.library.ohio.edu/spacejournal/vol9/iss16/12
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