Space solar power: Pentagon readies satellites with guidance beacons
US to test technology in 2028 (photo: Logan Voss)
The US aims to master the transmission of solar energy from space to Earth - the Department of Defense has signed a contract with the startup Overview Energy. The company will develop a beacon that will help satellites precisely direct energy to ground-based solar panels, reports the Overview Energy press service.
What is known?
The development will allow the company’s satellites to identify and verify receiving sites on Earth.
Once the object is confirmed, an apparatus in geostationary orbit, which collects sunlight, will be able to lock onto the target and begin transmission.
According to the engineers' design, satellites will collect solar energy in space and convert it into radiation close to infrared.
A safe, invisible beam will be directed specifically at existing or future industrial-scale ground-based solar power plants.
The core of the system is a compact guidance beacon to be installed at each receiving station.
The satellite will emit energy only after detecting an active and confirmed signal - this prevents attempts at spoofing or interception.
"The link between space and Earth is the most critical element of space-based solar power, especially for the military, which depends on energy at precise locations," noted Overview Energy Co-CEO Darko Filipi.
Read more: Missile-free defense at 36,000 km: France launches Project Yoda space program
Military application and testing schedule
Under the OECIF program, Overview Energy specialists will collaborate directly with the military at operational sites. Developers will gather requirements during the design phase, after which they will return with ready equipment for field trials.
The technology is designed to solve the problem of power supply for remote or resource-constrained bases, which typically rely on regular fuel convoys. The system will also allow energy to be redirected between continents depending on changing needs.
The first demo version and deployment are planned according to the following schedule:
- 2028: Integration of the beacon into the first demonstration satellite for testing in space;
- 2030: Start of the deployment of a full satellite constellation in geostationary orbit (GEO).
Christopher De Puma, head of the OECIF combat energy portfolio, emphasized that the development will ensure precise and safe energy delivery from orbit.
"This award advances a key technology for the secure delivery of resilient energy to service members," De Puma stated.
Incidentally, the technology has already undergone preliminary tests - energy was successfully transmitted from a moving airborne platform, confirming the accuracy of the tracking and guidance systems.
