Space Solar Power Research Reports
The Space Frontier Foundation's Space Solar Power (SSP) team produces original research to track the rapidly evolving landscape of space-based solar power. The reports on this page are authored by our interns — emerging researchers helping shape the foundation's analysis and advocacy work.
Environmental Impact of Space Solar Power
Jackson Schnabel
This report, authored by SFF intern Jackson Schnabel, examines the environmental impacts of space solar power across its entire life cycle — from raw material extraction through to decommissioning. Using the internationally standardized Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) methodology defined by ISO 14040:2006 and ISO 14044:2006, the report establishes a rigorous framework for evaluating and comparing SSP against other sustainable energy sources. Rather than analyzing a specific SSP system design, the report identifies key impact areas common to SSP development, highlights the metrics and indicators needed to measure them, and flags the open research questions that must be answered before a full LCA can be completed. It also addresses the particular challenges of accounting for space-based components, helping to standardize how space systems are measured relative to ground-based alternatives. The result is a foundational resource for researchers and developers working toward comprehensive environmental assessments of SSP.
Examine the Impacts
SSP Company Reports
Aya Ahmad
This report, authored by SFF intern Aya Ahmad, provides a detailed look at the companies at the forefront of commercial space solar power development in the United States and United Kingdom. The information compiled here goes beyond what is publicly available online — it draws on direct interviews conducted with leaders at each of the companies profiled. Companies covered include Aetherflux, Reflect Orbital, Space Solar, Star Catcher, Virtus Solis Technologies, and Volta Space Technologies. Each profile details the company's capabilities, technology approach, and use cases.
Read the Company ReportsThese reports reflect the work of the next generation of space energy advocates. The Space Frontier Foundation thanks Aya and Jackson for their contributions to advancing public knowledge of space solar power. If you would like to intern with the Space Frontier Foundation please get involved. We have positions open up regularly.