Advancement in technology and the development of new and innovative ideas has made it possible to use solar renewable energy for purposes other than heating and electricity generation. Renewable solar energy has been used to power rockets and satellites in space. A space based solar power system is a theoretical design for the collection of solar power in space so that can be used on the earth as an alternative power source. For this technology to work effectively a method of collecting solar power in space, a means of transmitting this solar power to earth and a method or device that can receive solar power on earth are required.
The space based solar power technology can use photovoltaic conversion and solar dynamic conversion for converting the renewable solar energy into direct current or electricity. Wireless transmission methods can be used to transmit the solar power from space to the earth. Microwaves or laser radiations are the best methods used for transmission. The solar power on earth is received by using microwave antennae. For the proper reception of solar power as an alternative power source, the antenna size and wavelength must be small.
The space based solar power systems have advantages. One main advantage is that alternative power stores are not needed for the storage of solar power. This is because there is no air in space and so the amount and intensity of renewable solar energy received will be more and it will not be affected by weather conditions as well. These systems have a great potential if used properly.
