LOGISTICS COSTS OF SOLAR POWER SATELLITES* R. H. MILLER and D. L. AKIN Space Systems Laboratory Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics Massachusetts Institute of Technology Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA 02139 Abstract — A brief discussion details the current level of understanding of the problems associated with the proposed deployment of solar power satellites (SPS). A costing rationale is presented, based on standard systems analysis techniques. The problem is broken down into major cost-driving parameters of transportation, productivity, and solar collection device costs, and further broken down into sets of parameters which specify a construction scenario for the SPS. An analysis of transportation to low earth orbit shows that earth launch costs may be reduced to below $40 per kg through the full utilization of launch system capabilities. A computer program is developed which performs an estimation of the overall program costs of the SPS, based on a set of 55 parameters which impact systems costs. Baseline cases are selected, and sensitivity studies performed to find the cost impact of the major variables. It is found that the use of nonterrestrial materials is economically attractive from a very early point in the program, and that a program of SPS construction can compete favorably (<$1000/kW installed) with systems in the 1990 time frame and beyond. 1. INTRODUCTION During the ten years since the concept of satellite solar power systems was first introduced (1), exploratory research has indicated that the state of the art in space transportation, zero-gee operations, and microwave transmission is sufficiently advanced to permit initiating development of the concept during the next decade. Granted that it is feasible to generate power in space and transmit it to earth for collection and distribution, questions still remain as to whether this potential solution to the world’s growing energy crisis is either economical or desirable. This paper will address the first question as a necessary prerequisite to the second, which can ultimately be decided only by the interested nations. Clearly the desirability of solar power satellites stem from their use of an in- exhaustable, nonpolluting source of energy which, if tapped in space, is capable of supplying base load continuously. This energy is available without the need for storage devices, and can be readily modulated as demand dictates. Concerns stem from the unknown environmental effects of the low density microwaves required for power transmission, both on the upper atmosphere and at the receiving antenna (rectenna). Additional research is needed to answer these concerns fully, nor should the SPS be developed until such research has been conducted. Present preliminary ♦Presented at The 29th Congress of The International Astronautical Federation in Dubrovnik.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTU5NjU0Mg==