Solar system having improved heliostat and sensor mountings

This specification discloses an improvement in a solar system having one or more collectors for receiving and using radiant energy from the sun and at least one and preferably a plurality of respective reflector means for reflecting the radiant energy onto the collectors. The improvement is characterized by having each reflector in the form of a heliostat that can be moved to maximize the radiant energy reflected onto its collector, driving motor for so moving each heliostat; firmly anchored support structure carrying each heliostat; and sensor connected by suitable controls with each drive motor for so moving each heliostat; the respective sensor being mounted on the same support structure as the heliostat and aligned in a straight line from the heliostat to its collector. With this construction, the sensor does not require an expensive and firmly anchored separate support structure to prevent receiving small surface movements different from those received by the heliostat.