Although it is not possible to calculate the cost of either the Microwave or Laser Solution, it is relatively simple to calculate the average net revenues that could potentially be realised. Space Station Freedom provides a good example because its operating parameters are well-defined. As has been shown, the larger Freedom's solar arrays become, the greater is the demand for stationkeeping propellant to stop the station from re-entering the atmosphere. For example, if Freedom’s user power is eventually expanded from the initial 37.5 kW (2 solar array wings) to 75 kW (4 wings), this will mandate that an additional 5 tonnes of propellant (including the container) will be needed every single year. As real Shuttle launch costs are around are 25.000 AU/kg, this translates to a total cost of about 125 MAU purely for propellant launch cost. Factoring in procurement, administrative, integration, hardware and other , costs, this total is likely to be nearer 200-250 MAU just to supply this extra 5 tonnes of propellant. In addition, because Freedom’s batteries are charged and discharged every orbit, these batteries must be replaced every few years, further adding to the support costs. Thus, over ten years or so, an additional 2.000-4.000 MAU will need to be spent just to accommodate a doubling of the user power level. If a Powersat could be developed and operated for significantly less than this amount, such an approach to upgrading Freedom’s power might be worth considering. The type of analysis provided here is equally applicable to future EMSI activities. More importantly, perhaps, because the Shuttle will never fly more than 6-8 times per year, the Powersats approach might be one of only a few practical ways of upgrading the power capability of stations like Freedom. Such problems will remain endemic to all space activities for as long as they remain dependent on the current generation of very expensive and infrequently launched space transportation systems.
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