Astronauts are currently installing the first of six new solar arrays on the International Space Station (ISS), in a bid to bolster the reduced power generation capability of the original panels which have now been in space for over twenty years.
A solar power station in space? Here’s how it would work – and the benefits it could bring Solar power systems on Earth can only produce energy during the daytime. Diyana Dimitrova/Shutterstock The UK government is reportedly considering a costly proposal to build a solar farm in space.
Space-based solar power (SBSP) was eventually dismissed as too expensive, and consigned to the attic of Space Age fantasies, along with lunar bases and ray guns. Now, it's back. Space agencies are returning to the idea of constructing enormous orbital arrays of solar panels, then beaming the power to Earth via microwaves.
Astronaut Scott Parazynski of STS-120 conducted a 7-hour, 19-minute spacewalk to repair (essentially sew) a damaged solar panel which helps supply power to the International Space Station. NASA considered the spacewalk dangerous with potential risk of electrical shock.
Space agencies are returning to the idea of constructing enormous orbital arrays of solar panels, then beaming the power to Earth via microwaves. Putting solar panels in space may seem unnecessary (when there's still room on our roofs), but this vision of the future has powerful backers.
An ISS solar panel intersecting Earth 's horizon. The electrical system of the International Space Station is a critical part of the International Space Station (ISS) as it allows the operation of essential life-support systems, safe operation of the station, operation of science equipment, as well as improving crew comfort.
Solar energy is a key element in keeping the International Space Station functional as it provides a working laboratory for astronauts in the unique microgravity environment. Astronauts rely on this renewable energy source to power the electronics needed for research and survival.
Overview2007 – Torn solar panel2003 – Waste accumulation after the Columbia disaster2004 – Air leak and Elektron oxygen generator failure2005 – Elektron oxygen generator fails again2006 – Venting of gas2007 – Computer failure2007 – Damaged starboard Solar Alpha Rotary Joint
On 30 October 2007, during Expedition 16 and flight day 7 of STS-120''s visit to ISS, following the repositioning of the P6 truss segment, ISS and Space Shuttle Discovery crew members began the deployment of the two solar arrays on the truss. The first array deployed without incident, and the second array deployed about 80% before astronauts noticed a 76-centimetre (2.5 ft) tear. The arrays …