Energy in Orbit: Powering the Future of the Space Economy
Energy is the foundation of sustained activity in space, driving everything from propulsion and life support to lunar mining and orbital manufacturing. As missions extend farther and last longer, new energy systems—solar arrays, nuclear propulsion, in-situ resource utilization—are becoming essential to enabling permanent infrastructure beyond Earth. Simultaneously, space-based energy technologies have the potential to transform terrestrial markets, from wireless power transmission to high-efficiency renewables. The energy economy and space economy are converging at the frontier of innovation and industrialization.
The Future of Energy Systems in the Space Economy: Innovations and Implications
The burgeoning space economy is anticipated to reach a staggering $1.8 trillion by 2035, driven by remarkable advancements in technology and infrastructure. Central to this growth is the exploration of innovative energy systems that can support sustainable operations beyond Earth.