What is space-based solar power?

Let me start by clarifing some terminology. All of the following terms refer to the same concept. Space Based Solar Power (SBSP), Space Solar Power (SSP) and Solar Power Satellite (SPS) are all used interchangeably although Space Solar Power (SSP) is the most common term used. This website uses Space Based Solar Power, as it was the term used in the most recent National Space Security Office study. There are three fundamental elements to space-based solar power. The first element consists of large solar panels in space near the Earth. These solar panels could be up to several square miles in size, depending on the capacity required. They would be placed in one of several orbits, including Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Geo synchronous (or stationary) Orbit (GEO), or even Sun Synchronous Orbit (SSO). Eventually, a constellation of satellites would be required. Another location for the space-based solar panels would be on the surface of the Moon. Wherever they are placed, these solar panels ...  more