The emerging opportunities for solar space power PETER E. GLASER Summary The expansion of space activities in an increasing number of countries and developing capabilities to pursue these activities are described in relation to emerging opportunities for solar space power. The evolution of a space industrial infrastructure based on the development of space stations and platforms that is opening up opportunities for space power projects is described. The need for a viable power supply to service the space infrastructure is emphasized. The space shuttle, space station, and the solar power satellite - and their relation to the development of a space infrastructure and the inherent commercial opportunities - are also described. The policy considerations to enable space mission planning and the development of systems and supporting technologies are cited. Finally, projections of space power markets in support of space activities are made, and a positive view of the achievable economic returns from space endeavours is emphasized. The bursting of terrestrial bonds and the dawn of the space age herald man's continuing evolution beyond the surface of the Earth. The first phase of space exploration reaped a rich harvest of scientific understanding and technological advancement beyond all expectations. Space activities have already enriched life on Earth by opening the doors to a huge source of new scientific knowledge about the Earth, the solar system, and the universe beyond. The scope of space activities is continuing to expand with an increasing number of countries developing capabilities to pursue these activities. It is only recently that space has been recognized as an arena for commercial activities that hold the key to future economic growth, with space activities providing the opportunity for industry to enter new markets, to develop new technologies, and to stimulate the innovation of materials and processes of value to society. No one today can accurately predict the impact of space activities over the coming decades. Nevertheless, much is known about the potential of these activities and the benefits that could be derived from them. There is a growing recognition that space offers inexhaustible energy and material resources and a unique environment. There is little doubt that the future exploitation of these resources will have a most profound effect on this civilization. Technology strongly controls the nature of industrial activities. The technical capabilities already demonstrated during the preceding three decades of space exploration have created a foundation for the evolutionary steps that are being taken to achieve the promise of the space frontier. Now that this new frontier has been opened, there is no turning back. Space activities are expected to influence the 21st century's Dr Peter E. Glaser, Vice President, Arthur D. Little, Inc., Cambridge, MA 02140, USA.
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