Reducing energy storage requirements of space power systems by illuminating the photovoltaic arrays with a remotely located laser system is addressed. It is proposed that large lasers be located on cloud-free sites at one or more ground locations and that large lenses or mirrors with adaptive optical correction be used to reduce the beam spread due to diffraction or atmospheric turbulence. During the eclipse periods or lunar night, the lasers illuminate the solar arrays to a level sufficient to provide operating power. Two applications are discussed: illumination of geosynchronous orbit satellites and illumination of a moonbase power system. Issues for photovoltaic receivers for such a system are discussed.<>


    Access

    Check access

    Check availability in my library

    Order at Subito €


    Export, share and cite



    Title :

    Space power by ground-based laser illumination


    Contributors:


    Publication date :

    1991-11-01


    Size :

    475847 byte




    Type of media :

    Article (Journal)


    Type of material :

    Electronic Resource


    Language :

    English