WestTexasBliss

Some scientists think the solution to the world’s energy problem can be found in space. Space, they say, is the ideal place to gather energy from the sun. With no clouds and no nighttime, a space-based solar power station could operate continuously. Two schemes have been proposed—space solar power (SSP), with giant arrays of solar panels orbiting Earth, and lunar solar power (LSP), with arrays on the moon. Both types of arrays would beam the power back to Earth in the form of powerful microwaves, which would be turned into electricity and transferred to a worldwide grid for consumption.

Scientists advocating these space-based ideas argue that while these technologies will require large amounts of funding in the initial stages, they could provide continuous, clean energy that would be cheaper than other fuels in the long run. Fossil fuels and uranium for nuclear reactors will eventually run out, and familiar renewable sources like wind and terrestrial solar power can’t fuel the whole planet. But solar power from space will last as long as the sun shines and is abundant enough to provide everyone on Earth with all the energy they need.

Related Links

Alternative Energy Action Network www.altenergyaction.org/mambo
This network looks at how individuals can help make an environmentally sound, energy-rich future a reality. Billed as “the big picture for energy in our world,” the site offers opinions on energy issues of the day, reviews of energy research, and data on all types of energy.

Alternative Energy Action Network: World Energy UseTo understand future energy needs, it’s important to know where energy use stands today. This site has numbers for total world energy use and breaks it down by nation, population, types of use (electric, transport, residential), and resource type.

National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
NREL is the United States Department of Energy’s primary laboratory for renewable energy and energy efficiency. The lab develops energy technology and works toward meeting the nation’s energy and environmental goals.

~ Marisa J. Larson, NASA