Researchers have shown how robots could build enormous structures like solar power arrays in space instead of risking astronauts.
A collaboration between the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA) and space-tech firm Space Solar has shown that such remote-controlled robots might soon be constructing gigantic solar power stations above our heads.
The project, named AlbaTRUSS, took place at UKAEA’s testing grounds in Oxfordshire. Researchers put dual-arm robotic manipulators through their paces and successfully assembled components for what could become massive solar power satellites.
It’s not just cool tech for tech’s sake, though. This could fundamentally change how we approach building large structures in orbit, from sprawling data centres to energy-generating facilities that could help power our increasingly energy-hungry world.
Space solar arrays for 24/7 power
The concept behind Space Solar’s approach is straightforward in principle, though fiendishly complex in practice. They want to capture solar energy where the sun never sets: space.
“The AlbaTRUSS project is a milestone not just for our satellite architecture, but for the future of large-scale structures in space, from data centres to energy infrastructure,” explained Dr Sam Adlen, Co-CEO of Space Solar.
Unlike solar panels on Earth – which are obviously limited by night time, cloudy days, and atmospheric interference – space-based solar collection offers continuous energy generation.
“Up in space, the sun shines 24/7. Once constructed, these satellites capture solar power and beam it back down to Earth in the form of microwaves, which can be received by antennas on the ground and converted into electricity for the grid,” said Dr Adlen.
However, these aren’t small satellites—we’re talking about structures that are several kilometres long and about 20 metres wide.
Robots over astronauts
The AlbaTRUSS experiment focused on demonstrating that robots could assemble structural truss bays, essentially the skeleton of these massive satellites. It’s a far cry from how we typically build things for space.
Most satellites launched today are single units or have small deployable parts that unfold once they reach orbit. The International Space Station, while impressive, required numerous dangerous spacewalks by highly trained astronauts to construct.
Using robots instead makes perfect sense—they don’t need oxygen, they don’t get tired, and most importantly, they don’t risk their lives when something goes wrong in the vacuum of space.
The fusion and space overlap
You might wonder why the UK’s atomic energy folks are getting involved with space solar power. It turns out the challenges of building fusion reactors and space structures have overlaps.
The UKAEA’s RACE facility (Remote Applications in Challenging Environments) specialises in robotics that can operate in environments hostile to us mortals, perfect for both fusion research and space construction.
Professor Rob Buckingham, Executive Director of UKAEA, sees natural synergies between the fields: “Building a machine as complicated as a fusion power plant on Earth, which will be entirely remotely operated, is similar to building structures in space. It could be a lunar station or a facility on Mars, so we’re talking about the future of humanity as well as ensuring energy security.
“Working closely with people in adjacent fields is vital for the UKAEA. By enabling new perspectives, it inspires our staff to think of different ways to solve challenges. It is hugely valuable to both parties.”
The partnership showcases Britain’s commitment to exploring multiple paths to sustainable energy. While fusion promises clean power here on Earth, space-based solar could beam nearly limitless energy from orbit.
This collaboration also positions the UK at the forefront of the emerging In-Space Assembly and Manufacturing sector, potentially creating new economic opportunities during challenging economic times.
“This achievement opens up new horizons for the space sector, an adjacent economic sphere that can ensure a bright future here on Earth,” added Dr Adlen.
Space Solar isn’t thinking small. They’re aiming to have a 30MW demonstration system operational by 2029, before scaling up to full gigawatt capacity in the early 2030s that would provide enough power for hundreds of thousands of homes.
While challenges remain, this demonstration of building solar arrays represents a crucial first step. The cross-pollination of ideas between nuclear and space sectors might just provide the innovation boost needed to tackle some of our most pressing energy and climate challenges.
(Photo by Daoudi Aissa)
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