Status of the Technology and Applications of Free-Space Microwave Power Transmission

Applications: Space Power Station, Recently, Dr. Peter Glaser of A. D. Little, Inc., has proposed that we solve some of the pollution and natural-resource depletion problems associated with present methods of generating electrical energy by tapping otherwise unused solar energy. He would place in synchronous orbit a very large solar cell array and transmit the electrical energy thus captured to the earth by means of a microwave power transmission system. In view of the fact that his concept would indeed be near pollution-free, would not use any of the earth's fossil or nuclear fuel reserves, and could make practical use of our acquired space technology, it is receiving favorable attention.