Orbiting solar power stations by 2041, new study reports
A recent study released by Paris-based International Academy of Astronautics indicates that orbiting solar power stations to generate power for Earth’s needs could become feasible by 2041.
“Instead of looking at ways of extending our dwindling supply of fossil fuels, the United States needs to seriously study the amazing potential of solar energy,” said Matthew Bartlett, founder and president of AtisSun Solar. “At a glance, the idea may seem like something out of Star Trek, but scientists all over the world are discovering that this could a major player in supplying global energy demand in the not-so-distant future.”
While the study did not provide an estimate of what such an undertaking would cost, it has found that the idea of “orbiting power plants capable of collecting solar energy and beaming it to earth appears ‘technically feasible’ within a decade or two based on technologies now in the laboratory.”
California consultant company, Artemis Innovation Management Solutions LLC, has received the contract for a small pilot project to explore the technology at an experimental level. The NASA contract is currently valued at less than $100,000.
“Global investment in clean energy technologies was nearly $80 billion in 2010,” Bartlett stated. “This concept has the potential to supply the world with an incredible source of energy if scientists are able to make it work. I believe that it deserves serious attention from public and private organizations.”
Reuters news service obtained a copy of the International Academy of Astronautics’ study prior to a news conference called by the National Space Society. The press conference will discuss the report and answer questions in greater detail; it is scheduled to take place next Monday.
