Technology and development requirements of the solar power satellite

Three major technology and development issues (energy conversion, microwave power transmission system and ground receiver, and construction) which must be addressed to achieve solar power satellite (SPS) operational capability are discussed. The technology and development issues center about economical operation of the SPS and identify requirements for such a program from the near term to the mid-1980's. For each of the issues, current status is described and critical considerations which must be addressed are identified. Hardwares under development and their evolution/utilization are also described. A timetable for an SPS program, together with a key technology and develoment step, the power technology module (PTM), are detailed. Based on the identified requirements, a three-step technology and development program, consisting of a ground technology phase, a Shuttie sortie mission phase, and a PTM phase, is recommended.