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Using super-heavy rockets, China's construction promises to revolutionize solar energy with an orbital plant capable of capturing energy 10 times more efficiently than on Earth and transmitting it directly to the planet.
A gigantic solar panel floating in space, collecting energy directly from the sun and sending it back to Earth, without interruption. It sounds like something out of a science fiction movie, doesn’t it? But that’s the reality of China’s latest ambitious project: building a solar power plant in space, comparable in scale to the Three Gorges Dam, the world’s largest hydroelectric project.
This plan, described by experts as the “Manhattan Project” of energy sector, promises to change the way we think about clean and sustainable energy.
What is the “Three Gorges Dam in Space”?
The idea behind the construction is as impressive as its name suggests. Just as the Three Gorges Dam is a symbol of innovation and energy power in China, this “space version” aims to make a similar impact, but 36.000 km above Earth.
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According to Long Lehao, a senior scientist and member of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, the goal is to install solar plants in geostationary orbit, where solar energy can be collected without interference from clouds or day-night cycles. This allows for continuous and much more efficient generation.
How do solar plants work in space?
Unlike traditional terrestrial solar panel systems, space solar plants operate under ideal conditions. The energy density in space is about 10 times greater than on Earth's surface, ensuring much higher efficiency.
The concept is simple: giant solar panels capture energy from the sun, and that energy is converted into microwaves or lasers, which are transmitted to antennas on Earth. From there, it is distributed for consumption.
The role of super-heavy rockets in China's construction
To make this project a reality, China is counting on its super-heavy rockets. These vehicles will be responsible for transporting the materials needed to assemble the plants in geostationary orbit.
It's like building a house in space — except instead of bricks and mortar, we use high-tech solar components. This step is critical and requires maximum precision, since any mistake can cost millions (or even billions) of dollars.
This project reaffirms China's role as a leader in aerospace innovations, challenging the capabilities of other powers, such as the United States.
Global impacts and benefits of the project
And why does this matter so much? Because China’s successful construction of this project could open doors to a future where clean, constant energy is accessible to everyone.
Imagine a world where we no longer depend on fossil fuels or weather conditions to generate electricity. A world where energy crises are a thing of the past. That’s the kind of transformation this project promises.
It can put China in a leading position in the global energy market, providing technology and know-how to other countries interested in adopting similar systems.
The challenges of building in space
But not everything is simple. Building and operating solar plants in space brings gigantic challenges, from the exorbitant cost to security issues, such as collisions with space debris.
However, history shows that great innovations often face significant barriers before becoming reality.
This project is very valid; compared to other projects like Elon Musk's crazy ideas that only think about their own aggrandizement instead of also worrying about current and future humanity.
36 thousand km? Is that right?
Ok. Less than that it doesn't stay in orbit.
I've seen this happen, they're taking too many resources from the earth, the earth is going to collapse.
Wau the Chinese are on another level so be it
Holy ignorance. What Elton Musk project is not in the collective interest? Keep in mind that Elon Musk grew because he created products of broad global interest. He does not force anyone to buy his products, unlike many, especially government officials, who get rich without providing any benefit to society.