Solar Disc Concept: An extensively axisymmetric, modular satellite that “grows” in GEO, and can provide an early on-line capability at a reduced power level. Key Features: Incremental construction of thin-film PV array around a central phased array transmitter Growable as demand requires Suggestor/Source: John C. Mankins, NASA Discussion Tlie “SolarDisc" space solar power concept exploits a revolutionary design paradigm to reduce the development and life cycle cost of a large geostationary solar power collector. A single satellite/ground receiver pair would be sized according to the specific market, ranging from approximately 1 GW to 10 GW scale. This concept, owing to its extensive modularity, will entail relatively small individual system components which can be developed at a moderate price, ground tested with no new facilities, and demonstrated in a flight environment with a sub-scale test. Manufacturing can be “mass production” style from the first satellite system. An extremely affordable LEO-to-GEO inspace transportation system is vitally important to this concept. Advantages Disadvantages Spiral “accretion” of PV on the rim permits gradual expansion which can grow with demand Continuous power Large scale power production Maximum RF aperture is fixed due to central location Incremental and separate growth of transmitter and collector arrays is possible, but each requires different infrastructure support levels and elements, including possible human presence
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