Chinese scientists have proposed a design for a new space solar power station that addresses fundamental issues related to solar energy sources. On March 17, 2025, at 10:26 AM, reports emerged highlighting this innovative design, which aims to solve the challenges associated with solar energy generation.
According to the scientists, this design represents a breakthrough in space solar power station concepts, which could serve as a crucial energy source for humanity in the future. The space solar power station (SSPS) concept was originally introduced by American scientist Peter Glaser, who envisioned collecting solar energy in space and transmitting it to Earth via microwaves. This system can potentially provide continuous energy supply, operating 24 hours a day without interruption.
Despite many decades passing since its inception, the SSPS concept has yet to be fully realized due to various technical challenges. Currently, many proposed SSPS designs exist, but they often lack the necessary feasibility for practical implementation, primarily due to the immense scale and complexity required for such projects.
The scientists from Shenzhen University have recently refined the SSPS design, known as “SSPS-CMCA” (Space Solar Power Station with Composite Materials and Configuration Adaptability). This design integrates existing solar energy technology with innovative structural designs, making it more efficient and easier to maintain.
The SSPS-CMCA design focuses on optimizing both energy collection and transmission capabilities. The research team has indicated that one of the main challenges in current designs is managing the orientation of solar panels to maximize solar energy capture. The SSPS-CMCA system addresses this by utilizing advanced control algorithms that allow for real-time adjustment of the solar panel orientation based on the sun’s position.
Additionally, the SSPS design incorporates a hybrid approach, combining solar collection and microwave transmission into a single system. This approach significantly reduces the complexities involved in constructing and operating such a large-scale energy system.
Through detailed analysis, the researchers have determined that the best combination of existing technologies can lead to a highly effective SSPS design. The SSPS-CMCA combines solar energy collection and microwave transmission systems into two major components: the solar collector array and the microwave transmitter.
The solar collector array comprises a central photovoltaic collector that captures solar energy, while the microwave transmitter is designed to facilitate efficient energy transfer to ground stations. The design aims to minimize the physical footprint of the system while maximizing its energy output.
In the context of the SSPS-CMCA, the researchers have proposed two solutions to overcome the limitations related to ground control and operation. One solution involves placing a compact rotary device on the solar collector to optimize energy capture, while the second focuses on employing electrical propulsion systems to enhance the performance of the satellite.
While the SSPS-CMCA has shown promise in theoretical assessments, significant work remains to be done to bring this concept to fruition. Ongoing developments in the field of space solar power will likely yield new opportunities for realizing this technology in the near future.
Experts believe that the SSPS-CMCA could effectively pave the way for more sustainable energy solutions, addressing critical issues related to energy supply and environmental pollution.
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