Geosynchronous satellite solar power

Since a solar array in space will receive up to 15 times as much solar energy as the same array on the ground, it is advantageous to consider geosynchronous orbital solar power plants. Two designs are considered, with cost estimates and transportation considerations. One is a large photovoltaic solar array and the other is a large solar thermal power plant using paraboloidal concentrators, a Brayton cycle engine and a turbogenerator (the efficiency of this system is calculated at 36 percent, which is considerably higher than that of the solar cell array). The power is transmitted to an earth rectenna station by microwave transmission. Various design, power transmission, transportation, surviving, control, and possible, but unlikely, health hazard details are given. Projected possible power stations and cost schedules are included. (LTN)