wireless power

Japan Space Systems’ space solar power systems (SSPS) project has moved a step ahead with the ground demonstration testing of wireless power transmission technology.

SSPS is designed to generate power on a geostationary satellite at 36,000km above Earth and transmit it to Earth through microwave / laser.

Called radio emission technology, the wireless power transmission system is said to be the core technology of SSPS, and was tested at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ (MHI) Kobe Shipyard and Machinery Works plant in Japan.

"As part of the ground demonstration test, 10kW of power was transmitted by microwave to a receiver unit at a distance of 500m."

MHI conducted the test as part of a deal with Japan Space Systems, which was created by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry to manage the 2012 Solar Power Wireless Transmission Technology Development Project.

As part of the ground demonstration test, 10kW of power was transmitted by microwave to a receiver unit at a distance of 500m. Illumination of LED lights confirmed the receipt of power.

MHI confirmed the performance of the control system technology, which regulates the microwave beam to the targeted receiver unit.

Unlike conventional systems, the wireless power transmission technology eliminates cable connections to transmit electricity, and could pave the way to transmission of power from offshore wind turbines and other applications.

MHI intends to explore further applications of the aerospace technology.

Image: The space solar power system is designed to generate power on a geostationary satellite at 36,000km above Earth. Photo: courtesy of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd.