A Conceptual Approach to Deploying Laser Power Transmission Technologies in Space Infrastructure
Wireless Power Transmission (WPT) is an innovative technology that allows energy transfer without physical wires, utilizing methods like radio waves, electromagnetic fields, lasers, and microwaves. This technology has attracted considerable interest for its ability to surpass the constraints of conventional power systems, especially in demanding settings such as space, underwater, and military uses, especially where standard energy sources are unavailable. Recent developments in Laser Power Transmission (LPT), showcase its capability to transfer power efficiently over long distances. This innovation minimizes dependence on physical infrastructure and facilitates a continuous energy supply in space and remote locations. Today, it is gaining traction due to the rising demand for contactless energy solutions in space exploration, lunar bases, and deep-space missions. A critical element of LPT systems is the Optical Power Converter (OPC), which converts laser energy transmitted through space into electrical power.
The efficiency of OPCs is influenced by factors like the wavelength of the incoming laser and the absorbing material used. Silicon carbide (SiC) based technologies show potential in boosting OPC performance, thanks to this material's great resilience to space conditions and expected efficiency in space conditions. The ongoing European Project rePowerSiC focuses on developing SiC-based laser beaming systems to enhance efficiency, precision, and durability for in-space applications. This work reviews the latest advancements in laser power technology, showcasing the progress made by organizations like NASA, JAXA, and the private sector. It also discusses challenges such as beam alignment, thermal management, and scalability. Current research in LPT, particularly with SiC-based systems, aims to transform space energy infrastructures, improve deep-space missions, and possibly offer sustainable energy solutions for Earth.
keywords: Laser power transfer, silicon carbide, Wireless power transmission
Publication: Congress
1762342705384
November 5, 2025
/research/publications/a-conceptual-approach-to-deploying-laser-power-transmission-technologies-in-space-infrastructure
Wireless Power Transmission (WPT) is an innovative technology that allows energy transfer without physical wires, utilizing methods like radio waves, electromagnetic fields, lasers, and microwaves. This technology has attracted considerable interest for its ability to surpass the constraints of conventional power systems, especially in demanding settings such as space, underwater, and military uses, especially where standard energy sources are unavailable. Recent developments in Laser Power Transmission (LPT), showcase its capability to transfer power efficiently over long distances. This innovation minimizes dependence on physical infrastructure and facilitates a continuous energy supply in space and remote locations. Today, it is gaining traction due to the rising demand for contactless energy solutions in space exploration, lunar bases, and deep-space missions. A critical element of LPT systems is the Optical Power Converter (OPC), which converts laser energy transmitted through space into electrical power.
The efficiency of OPCs is influenced by factors like the wavelength of the incoming laser and the absorbing material used. Silicon carbide (SiC) based technologies show potential in boosting OPC performance, thanks to this material's great resilience to space conditions and expected efficiency in space conditions. The ongoing European Project rePowerSiC focuses on developing SiC-based laser beaming systems to enhance efficiency, precision, and durability for in-space applications. This work reviews the latest advancements in laser power technology, showcasing the progress made by organizations like NASA, JAXA, and the private sector. It also discusses challenges such as beam alignment, thermal management, and scalability. Current research in LPT, particularly with SiC-based systems, aims to transform space energy infrastructures, improve deep-space missions, and possibly offer sustainable energy solutions for Earth. - A. Shahriyari, J. F. Lozano, E. Comesaña, N. Seoane, Eduardo F. Fernández, Florencia Almonacid and A. Garcia-Loureiro
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