Japan Launches Space Solar Satellite in 2025 to Beam Power to Earth via Microwaves
Summary
Japan launches groundbreaking OHISAMA satellite in 2025 to beam solar power from space to Earth via microwaves, marking the first real test of orbital energy transmission as the nation seeks energy independence despite costs being 10 times higher than ground-based alternatives.
Key Points
- Japan prepares to launch OHISAMA satellite in 2025 to beam solar energy from space to Earth using microwave transmission in the first real test of orbital power transmission
- The washing machine-sized satellite will orbit 400 kilometers above Earth and transmit enough energy to power a coffee maker to ground antennas in Suwa with precision targeting of 0.001 degrees
- Japan pursues space-based solar power as a solution to importing 90% of its energy needs, aiming for a 1-gigawatt orbital solar array within 25 years despite costs potentially 10 times higher than terrestrial alternatives