System for sending solar energy from space to the Earth tested in Japan - VIDEO Solar energy is more convenient to collect in those latitudes, where the least cloudy days, and best of all - right out of space where there are no clouds at all. Engineers understand that although it is the most effective way to create a system of delivery of energy from space takes a lot of time, money and effort.
Japanese company Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has taken a step forward towards this dream: they successfully tested a system to send solar energy from space to Earth. Wireless display system 10 kilowatts forwarded to microwaves from the transmitter to the receiver, the remote distance of 500 meters. And though for a real connection with the cosmos that distance is not enough, the engineers say that the first step has been taken, and further development of the system - a matter of time.
Transfer of energy, according to the authors of the experiment was confirmed by a simple proof - ignition lights all the way of its passage. While not known what percentage of energy able to overcome all distance and reach the receiver, but it is clearly higher than in the previous experiments.
It is noteworthy that progress in technology is pretty big: just a couple of days before the experiment, scientists have forwarded 1.8 kilowatts to 55 meters. This power is enough only for the operation of the electric kettle, but, according to representatives of the Japanese space agency JAXA, participated in the experiment in the future rate of technology development can begin to grow. Of course, with proper intellectual and financial investments.
Engineers say that this demonstration - just check the viability of the concept. In the future (perhaps decades later) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries plans to build a huge space station to collect solar energy and sending it to Earth via microwave power beam. According to calculations, the ideal space solar panels should be placed in 36 thoUSAnd kilometers from the Earth's surface.
What is important, the trials failed to confirm the effectiveness of the control system, which controls the operation of the microwave power beam, in which solar energy is sent to the planet. Analysis of test results showed that the system can withstand the load and large energy at small modifications.
The construction of a full-scale space station to collect solar energy will require considerable financial investments of private companies and government subsidies. You will also need to bring a lot of professionals who will bring to mind the concept and make the system as efficient as possible, and safe for people and nature.
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