Open Interface System Protocols for Space Based Power Systems

Abstract

Renewable energy systems have been recognized to play an important role in future environmentally friendly energy systems. An important source of renewable energy is solar power derived when solar panels intercept with incident solar radiation. The degradation effect of cloud obstruction has led to the consideration of space-based solar power systems. In space-based solar power systems, satellites with large solar panel payload transmit solar energy to earth-based rectennas. The deployment of multiple space based solar power satellites is necessary to ensure that more energy is derived from space based solar power. However, the realization of such a system requires the design of communication protocols between in-orbiting space-based power satellites. The use of such a system enables multiple receiving antenna ground stations to concurrently receive power from solar power satellites. The presented research aims to present the design of system protocols that enable the realization of this goal, considering heterogeneous solar power satellites and operational conditions. This is carried out while considering communications between in-orbiting space-based solar power satellites, along with satellite rectennas. Furthermore, performance analysis and investigations show that the use of the proposed solution enhances power accessibility and reduces deficit by an average of 18%.