Laser beamed power - Satellite demonstration applicationsFeasibility of using a ground-based laser to beam light to the solar arrays of orbiting satellites to a level sufficient to provide the operating power required is discussed. An example case of a GEO communications satellite near the end of life due to radiation damage of the solar arrays or battery failure is considered. It is concluded that the commercial satellite industry should be able to reap significant economic benefits through the use of power beaming which is capable of providing supplemental power for satellites with failing arrays, or primary power for failed batteries.
Document ID
19920074432
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Landis, Geoffrey A. (Sverdrup Technology, Inc.; NASA, Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Westerlund, Larry H. (Satellite Communications Consultants Rockville, MD, United States)