Power from space — the tough questions

Abstract The possibility for supplying Earth with abundant clean energy imported from space has been appreciated for many years. Much solid work has taken place on studies and technology demonstrations, the results of which have persuaded many that this concept is the enabler for a sustainable energy future. As with any new large-scale technology, however, valid questions can be raised and it is timely to determine whether power from space is needed for the Earth and if the approach suggested by its advocates is sound. The purpose of this paper is to establish a framework for determining this need and soundness of approach. The method used is to frame key questions and, for each question, suggest what is known, what is unknown or controversial, and what actions would be helpful to expand what is known and to shrink the domain of uncertainty. The questions are: is power from space technically feasible?, is it needed to meet the demand for energy?, is it needed on environmental grounds?, is it safe?, and, can it be cost competitive? If power from space is needed and the approach is indeed determined to be sound, then serious work to lay the foundation for actual implementation should commence. Dr. Glaser proposed a set of “Terraces” along which technical progress might proceed. This paper amplifies the terracing notion, extending it into the implementation dimension, and suggests additional actions to promote power from space as an energy option to meet a pressing human need.