Meet the startup testing space-based solar farms that use lasers to send power to Earth

The concept of transmitting solar energy from space to Earth using lasers may seem like a plot straight out of a science fiction novel, yet a California startup is making strides in this groundbreaking technology. Aetherflux is set to launch its innovative satellite solar farms into low orbit with the help of a SpaceX rocket next year. Leading the charge at Aetherflux is Baiju Bhatt, co-founder of Robinhood, who envisions a network of satellites capable of beaming energy back to Earth. "We aim to create a constellation of satellites where each unit transmits power using infrared lasers," Bhatt explained. This approach allows for distributed power generation, making the system more efficient and facilitating the use of smaller ground stations to collect the energy. As the satellites orbit the Earth, they can direct energy to various ground stations, optimizing the distribution of power. Bhatt highlighted that one satellite could project energy to multiple locations as it travels, enhancing the overall efficiency of the system. Currently, Aetherflux is collaborating with the U.S. Department of Defense, a significant market that presents unique challenges in energy delivery, especially in battle zones where traditional diesel generators are vulnerable to enemy attacks. This partnership is particularly appealing to investors, including Bill Gates' Breakthrough Energy Ventures, who believe that success in this demanding sector could pave the way for broader applications. "We see the military as a substantial and challenging customer. If we can meet their needs, we can scale our constellation and drive down technology costs, allowing us to expand into other markets," stated Christian Garcia, managing partner at Breakthrough Energy Ventures. Aetherflux has already secured $60 million in funding from notable investors such as Index Ventures, Andreessen Horowitz, and New Enterprise Associates. While Bhatt acknowledges the current high costs of the technology, he is optimistic that advancements in launch capabilities and component development will lead to more economical solutions in the future. Aetherflux is not alone in its quest to develop space-based solar energy systems; other companies, including Cal-Tech, Virtus Solis, and the UK-based Space Solar, are also exploring similar ventures. Furthermore, earlier this year, China revealed plans for a massive solar power station in space designed to transmit continuous energy back to Earth via microwaves. The race for space-powered energy is heating up, with Aetherflux at the forefront of this revolutionary movement.