Silicon PV Cell Production on the Moon
Publication: Journal of Aerospace Engineering
Volume 14, Issue 2
Abstract
A concept has been developed for the production of photovoltaic energy collection systems on the Moon by vacuum deposition directly onto the lunar surface. Using this technique it would be possible to quickly install quite large capacities of power on the Moon at relatively low cost. Most of the material required for photovoltaic devices is readily available on the Moon, and taking production machinery to the Moon can further lower the cost of power if the machinery can be operated for long periods of time. Low-cost energy on the Moon could enable a wide range of activities including support of robust human outposts, production of propellants for use on the Moon or for export, production of a wide range of other materials for use in space, and beaming of energy from the Moon to space and to Earth. A proposed strategy by which lunar power can be developed in the near future is closely connected to the establishment of a human outpost on the Moon.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Aerospace Engineering
Volume 14 • Issue 2 • April 2001
Pages: 77 - 83
History
Received: Dec 13, 2000
Published online: Apr 1, 2001
Published in print: Apr 2001
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