Moon and Earth
Photo: Chinese Academy of Sciences
If laser wireless power transfer (LWPT) can be realized, China could solve one of the major challenges of lunar exploration, according to SpaceNews on January 21. That is to provide power for spacecraft on the moon.
In theory, LWPT uses laser beams to wirelessly transmit energy from satellites in orbit to receiving stations on the surface, converting light into electricity.
The researchers propose developing the key technologies of LWPT, followed by on-orbit testing.
The moon is currently face-locked with the earth, leading to harsh environmental conditions during the celestial body’s two-week period of alternating darkness and day.
While solar power can power the spacecraft for two weeks during the day, the next two weeks of darkness are truly challenging.
The spacecraft needs heat and electricity to get through two weeks of darkness and temperatures as low as -200 degrees Celsius.
Besides providing power during the dark period, LWPT also supports spacecraft operations inside permanently dark calderas, according to a report published on Journal of Deep Space Exploration (JDSE).
However, LWPT technology faces challenges such as efficiency and transmission range.
“There is an urgent need to focus on developing space-based high-energy laser technology and high-precision laser transmission systems, as well as on-orbit authentication technology,” according to the report.
The report was prepared by authors from the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) and Shandong Aerospace Electronics Technology Research Institute.
