Explore the potential of lunar-based solar energy production in this comprehensive lecture. Delve into the fabrication of thin film solar cells on the Moon's surface, examining the advantages of lunar resources and environmental conditions. Learn about current solar technology, cost reduction strategies, and the benefits of space-based solar power. Discover the process of creating solar cells using lunar materials, including silicon extraction, substrate formation, and array construction. Investigate the challenges and advantages of lunar solar cell production, material availability, and the concept of lunar power satellites. Gain insights into innovative technologies like self-paper solar cells and power beaming. Analyze the economic feasibility and potential impact of this groundbreaking approach to sustainable energy generation.
The Fabrication of Thin Film Solar Cells on the Surface of the Moon
University of Houston-Clear Lake via YouTube
Overview
Syllabus
Introduction
Collaborators
Rick Smalley
Solar Energy
Current Technology
Cost
Value chain
Cost reduction
Solar energy from space
Moon benefits
Raw materials
Vacuum environment
Solar cells on the moon
Abundances on the surface
Silicon
Solar Cells
Substrate
Regulus
Antireflection layer
Cell paver
Parabolic collectors
Solar arrays
Melting the lunar regolith
How does the crawler move
Increasing the number of cells
Cost to the moon
Solar cell efficiency
Selfpaper solar cells
Costs
Power Beaming
Secret Transmission
High Orbits
Challenges
Making the Solar Cells
MicroCrystal Silicon
Crystalline Silicon
Challenges Advantages
Materials Availability
World Reserves
Known Reserves
Lunar Power Satellite
Material Availability Challenge
Taught by
College of Science and Engineering
