Space Lasers Poised for First Energy Transmission Test in Orbit
Star Catcher's prototype aims to beam solar power to satellites via lasers.
1Space Data Centers Need Power
Companies like Google and SpaceX are planning to build data centers in space, but these facilities require significant power. Star Catcher, a Florida-based startup, is addressing this challenge by developing a system that concentrates solar energy and beams it to satellites using lasers. Their prototype, launching this week on a SpaceX rocket, will test energy transmission between two untethered objects in orbit for the first time.
2Decades-Old Concept
The idea of generating solar power in space dates back to Isaac Asimov’s 1941 sci-fi story and was studied by NASA in the 1970s. However, high launch costs previously made it impractical. Today, reduced launch expenses are enabling orbital industries to pursue space-based energy solutions. Star Catcher’s system leverages this feasibility, aiming to provide meaningful commercial power services by the end of the decade.
3How It Works
Star Catcher’s satellites use lenses to gather sunlight and refine it into wavelengths that provide up to 10 times more power than diffuse sunlight. The energy is then emitted as a laser beam, acting as an ethereal transmission cable directed at satellites in need of power. This approach promises increased uptime and profitability for satellite operators by reducing battery size and enabling more efficient operations.
4Prototype Launch
The company’s prototype satellite, Protostar, will test the entire system in space for the first time. It will beam energy to an untethered cubesat launched simultaneously, using Star Catcher’s tracking technology. The test will measure power reception as the cubesat moves away from Protostar, comparing results against the company’s models to validate the system’s efficiency and reliability.
5Groundbreaking Tests
Star Catcher has already conducted space-based tests of its tracking technology and set a record last year for beaming power on the ground, surpassing a mark set by DARPA. Their ground test delivered over 1 kilowatt of power to off-the-shelf solar panels, enough to power a microwave. While this is a milestone, scaling up to power telecommunications satellites and data centers remains a challenge.
6Previous Laser Experiments
The Naval Research Laboratory completed a 100-day experiment in 2023, operating a space laser to generate power. However, the beam traveled less than 5 feet and operated at only 11% efficiency. Researchers highlight the need to improve efficiency, manage heat, and ensure long-term operation in space’s harsh conditions to make space-based lasers economically viable.
7Alternative Approaches
Other methods of space-based solar power, such as transmitting energy via microwaves, have been tested successfully by Caltech scientists. While microwaves can transmit more energy, they require massive receivers, whereas lasers can target much smaller areas. Star Catcher’s laser-based approach offers a more precise and scalable solution for powering satellites and future space infrastructure.
8Transformational Potential
Star Catcher’s CEO, Andrew Rush, views their technology as transformative for the space sector, akin to reusable launch vehicles. By enabling efficient power transmission in orbit, the company aims to make it more economical to deploy larger and more capable industries in space. This innovation could pave the way for sustainable space-based infrastructure and industries.
Original article: Science Latest — Space Lasers Poised for First Energy Transmission Test in Orbit