Pioneering research on sustainable energy transfer from space
Thursday 21 January 2010
Cutting-edge research being carried out at the Advanced Technology Institute (ATI), University of Surrey, aims to capture solar energy directly from space and transmit the energy to Earth using lasers.
Dr Stephen Sweeney of the ATI and Department of Physics is leading the project at Surrey working closely with EADS Astrium. The aim of the research is to use infrared lasers as a means of beaming solar energy from a satellite system to Earth.
Dr Sweeney comments: “Exploiting the power of the sun directly from space provides a clean, constantly available source of energy that may be used anywhere on demand – a solar tap. Using a laser-based system overcomes many of the problems associated with collecting solar energy on the ground. The challenge for us is to develop the technology to maximise the conversion of infrared laser light into electricity.”
The project is the result of a long term partnership setup between Astrium, Europe’s largest space company and the University of Surrey, to develop solutions to terrestrial problems using space technology. Robert Lainé, Astrium Space’s Chief Technology Officer, spoke to the BBC News Channel about the project and Astrium’s plans to fly a demonstration solar power mission in orbit.
Professor Ravi Silva, Director of the ATI, comments: “The task of powering the world can only be solved using high quality research applied to societal needs. The green sustainable energy solution outlined is a beautiful example of industry working with academia on knowledge transfer. Surrey recently won a major contract from EPSRC on Knowledge Transfer to exploit such research. We look forward to a fruitful partnership and technology solution with this project.”
For more information please visit: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/sci/tech/8467472.stm
Media enquiries: Peter La, Press Office at the University of Surrey, Tel: 01483 689191 or E-mail: p.la@surrey.ac.uk
Notes to Editors
About the University of Surrey
The University of Surrey is one of the UK’s leading professional, scientific and technological universities with a world class research profile and a reputation for excellence in teaching and research. Ground-breaking research at the University is bringing direct benefit to all spheres of life – helping industry to maintain its competitive edge and creating improvements in the areas of health, medicine, space science, the environment, communications, defence and social policy. Programmes in science and technology have gained widespread recognition and it also boasts flourishing programmes in dance and music, social sciences, management and languages and law. In addition to the campus on 150 hectares just outside Guildford, Surrey, the University also owns and runs the Surrey Research Park, which provides facilities for 140 companies employing 2,700 staff.
The Sunday Times names Surrey as ‘The University for Jobs' which underlines the university’s growing reputation for providing high quality, relevant degrees.
Surrey is a member of the 1994 Group of 19 leading research-intensive universities. The Group was established in 1994 to promote excellence in university research and teaching. Each member undertakes diverse and high-quality research, while ensuring excellent levels of teaching and student experience.
About EADS Astrium
Astrium, a wholly owned subsidiary of EADS, is dedicated to providing civil and defence space systems and services. In 2008, Astrium had a turnover of €4.3 billion and more than 15,000 employees in France, Germany, the United Kingdom, Spain and the Netherlands. Its three main areas of activity are Astrium Space Transportation for launchers and orbital infrastructure, Astrium Satellites for spacecraft and ground segment and Astrium Services for the development and delivery of satellite services.
EADS is a global leader in aerospace, defence and related services. In 2008, EADS generated revenues of €43.3 billion and employed a workforce of more than 118, 000.
Press contacts:
Daniel Mosely (Astrium UK) Tel.: 44 (0)1 438 77 8180