Insolation Focusing Concept: LEO Constellation or single GEO satellite - in essence a set of orbiting mirror/lens combinations - collect and focus sunlight on one or more ground sites equipped with PV arrays, and possibly water reservoirs to capture waste heat. Key Features: Energy conversion systems remain on Earth Ground segment can produce daytime power without using the space segment Suggestor/Source: Various Discussion The suggestion of placing reflective objects in Earth orbit for artificial illumination is an old idea, possibly traceable to Krafft Ehricke. Reportedly some consideration was given to this concept for the purposes of illuminating the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Vietnam during the 1960's. Tlie Russians have demonstrated the deployment of a reflector in low Earth orbit in a test called Banner. Although one of the stated purposes of the test was to demonstrate illumination of a small (and rapidly moving) spot on the grotmd, some analysts believe that the real purpose of the test was to demonstrate deployment of a solar sail and that the ground illumination experiment was at best, a secondary purpose. Advantages Disadvantages Simple in concept Environmentally unacceptable Giant constellations required Requires very large surface PV areas
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