space-based solar power

Overview

Space-based solar power is electrical power which is generated by collecting solar energy from an installation somewhere in Earth orbit where sunlight is both more continuous (minimal "nighttime") and unobstructed by atmosphere.

From that location, the electrical energy must somehow be transmitted to the Earth's surface, either via wireless power transmission or via cable (which would require the construction of a space elevator). The former is currently the most feasible option, at least for the near term.

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