Space-Based Mitigation Concepts The use of space for monitoring the Earth is universally accepted. The Mission to Planet Earth Program (MPE) represents an effective application of the overview of the globe available from an orbiting spacecraft. Instruments can collect data over vast areas in relatively short periods of time. Concepts for space-based environmental countermeasures are not as apparent. The scale of a system concept capable of effectively interacting with factors affecting the global climate or the ozone layer is orders-of-magnitude larger than any current space program. One of the better defined concepts is the Solar Power Satellite(SPS) [3]. The idea of generating enormous quantities of electricity in Earth orbit and beaming the energy to the surface as an alternative to fossil fuels has fascinated engineers to an increasing degree since Dr. Peter Glaser proposed it [8]. Technical feasibility of the SPS has not been an issue so much as the cost and economics of operation. Particularly in this case, the magnitude of the undertaking must be placed in perspective by the potential benefits of a nonpolluting renewable energy source [9], The extensive analysis of the SPS addressed in system definition studies [10] in the late 1970's resulted in a database and many individual concept supporters. Renewed interest in the SPS emphasizes the need to examine the assumptions and analysis in the context of benefits to the environment. One interesting aspect is the construction of the SPS using materials from the Moon. This linkage to the Space Exploration Initiative(SEI) has been considered in the context of spinoff benefits from the exploration program. Variations in the SPS approach to obtaining energy from space should also be investigated. Lunar-based power generation as proposed by Criswell and Waldron [11] provides some advantages over the geosynchronous orbiting SPS. These advantages may be countered by the increased operational complexity and initial investment to develop the system. This system has solar energy conversion devices located on the Moon's surface. Microwaves are used to transport the energy back to Earth via orbiting reflectors. Lunar materials would be used to make the system economically practical. Lunar materials figure in an entirely different method of reducing use of fossil fuels in the Earth's economy. Helium 3 is present in significant quantities in lunar soil. It will combine with deuterium in a fusion reaction that is cleaner than the current fusion approach [6]. The development path for this alternative energy approach will undoubtedly be expensive and risky. Access to mine the helium on the moon and the focus of fusion research are impediments to fulfilling this alternative energy source. It is also conceivable that an orbiting fusion reactor could impart a breakthrough in fusion technology from the vacuum and micro-gravity environment of space. The benefits of clean fusion power may well be worth the investment. The potential for generating large quantities of power in orbit opens the consideration of concepts for dealing with other environmental problems such as depletion of the ozone layer in the stratosphere. Related innovative concepts include the use of radio waves, laser beams or particle beams to conserve the ozone layer.
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