English: Space-based solar power (SBSP) could be an efficient source of clean and reliable energy on Earth or other surfaces such as the Moon.
Incident solar radiation
In orbit, the intensity of sunlight is much higher than the intensity at Earth’s surface.
Solar energy capture & regulation
Sunlight is converted into a current, then prepared for radio frequency beaming to Earth, the Moon or another planetary surface.
Power beaming
Energy is sent down to Earth using phased arrays, laser emitters or other wireless technologies. The energy beam must be accurate, reliable and should retain as much of its power as possible as it travels through Earth’s atmosphere.
Beam capture and energy conversion
The energy beam is captured with photovoltaic cells or with an antenna that converts electromagnetic energy into electricity. Satellites can beam energy down to a single ground site, or to several locations around a planetary object.
Power distribution
Systems that collect the space-based solar power on Earth must be safely and sustainably integrated into existing power grids. Power distribution is also vital in science, exploration and colonisation missions.