Space Solar Power Project Ends First In-Space Mission with Successes and Lessons

One year ago, Caltech's Space Solar Power Demonstrator (SSPD-1) launched into space to demonstrate and test three technological innovations that are among those necessary to make space solar power a reality.

The spaceborne testbed demonstrated the ability to beam power wirelessly in space; it measured the efficiency, durability, and function of a variety of different types of solar cells in space; and gave a real-world trial of the design of a lightweight deployable structure to deliver and hold the aforementioned solar cells and power transmitters.

Now, with SSPD-1's mission in space concluded, engineers on Earth are celebrating the testbed's successes and learning important lessons that will help chart the future of space solar power. [Caltech story]