Japan plans microwave experiment to beam space solar power to Earth
Updated
Updated · Nikkei Asia · Apr 28
Japan plans microwave experiment to beam space solar power to Earth
10 articles · Updated · Nikkei Asia · Apr 28
The Tokyo initiative would be a potential world first, with Japan Space Systems aiming to launch a 2.5-square-kilometre solar panel into orbit by 2050.
The test would use microwaves to transmit electricity generated by solar panels in space down to Earth, exploring a new way to deliver power.
Japan says the technology could help ease power shortages and support future lunar exploration if it proves technically and commercially viable.
While Japan develops space solar, is America's bet on lunar nuclear reactors the superior strategy for off-world ambitions?
With a global energy crisis looming, can space solar power become cost-effective before grids collapse under AI's demand?
As nations race to beam solar power from space, what are the unspoken security risks of weaponizing energy from orbit?
Space-Based Solar Power Race: Japan's OHISAMA to Prove Wireless Power Transmission from Orbit
Overview
Following the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster, Japan prioritized energy security and invested decades in wireless power and space technology research. This effort leads to the 2026 launch of the OHISAMA satellite, which will demonstrate space-based solar power by beaming one kilowatt of energy to a ground station in Suwa. This milestone is a key step toward Japan's goal of deploying gigawatt-scale orbital solar power stations by 2051. Globally, the US, China, and Europe are advancing their own SBSP programs, aiming for large-scale systems by mid-century. Beyond Earth, SBSP technology also supports sustainable lunar habitats and disaster relief on Earth, highlighting its broad future potential.