Solar power satellite concept revisited

The continued evolution of the solar power satellite (SPS) concept is reviewed. The advances in generic technologies applicable to the SPS resulting from the growth of commercial activities in space, the Space Station program and the strategic defense initiative are highlighted. The growing international literature on the SPS is cited to indicate that this concept continues to receive consideration. Significant developments, including photovoltaic and solar dynamic conversion, space experiments to test performance of critical technologies, power distribution subsystems, automation and teleoperators that are advancing the feasibility of the SPS are discussed. The possibility of a return to the moon and uses of lunar resources for SPS construction are mentioned as examples of space missions that will contribute to the buildup of the industrial infrastructure that can be the foundation for SPS development. 11 references.