SOLAR POWER SATELLITE CONCEPT - SPACE PROGRAM PERSPECTIVE

A number of studies have projected potential space activities in the coming years. These potential activities have included the use of satellites to collect energY in space and relay it to Earth; the usefulness of the unique properties of space, such as null gravity, for research into various phenomena and possibly for the production of new or improved commercial products; and continuation and advancement of the use of satellites for international and domestic communications. These potential activities of the future will require research and development in the present if they are to occur. Some common technological requirements among these various applications, which in turn may lead to a possible ″single thread″ of space projects, are discussed herein. These space projects would exploit the capabilities of the Space Shuttle transportation system to develop the technologies and evaluate the merits of the various applications.