China plans three gorges dam-scale space-based solar power station

Could a solar power station be a 'Three Gorges Dam'?

Chinese scientists plan to build a colossal 0.6-mile-wide solar power station in space, designed to beam energy back to Earth, likened to an orbital "Three Gorges Dam." Lead scientist Long Lehao claims the energy collected annually could equal the total oil extracted globally, emphasizing the project’s groundbreaking potential.

Could China build solar power stations in space?

China has announced an ambitious plan to build solar power stations in space using super-heavy rockets. The concept called “another Three Gorges Dam project above the Earth” has been outlined by a senior Chinese scientist, Long Lehao, according to a report in the South China Morning Post (SCMP).

What is the 3 Gorges Dam in space?

Dubbed the "Three Gorges Dam in space," this project mirrors the scale of Earth’s largest hydropower station, which generates 100 billion kilowatt-hours annually. According to NASA, solar intensity in space is ten times stronger than on Earth, making orbital stations a more efficient solution to global energy demands.

When did China start building a space solar power station?

In June 2021, China initiated the construction of its first experimental space solar power station in Bishan. In November 2023, researchers from the Xian University of Electronic Science and Technology published test results for the “Chasing Sun Project,” the world’s first complete ground verification system for space solar power.

Will there be another Three Gorges Dam project above Earth?

The project, which will see its components lofted to GEO using super-heavy rockets, has been dubbed “ another Three Gorges Dam project above the Earth.” The Three Gorges Dam, located in the middle of the Yangtze river in central China, is the world’s largest hydropower project and generates 100 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity each year.

Can solar power stations be built in space?

These solar stations can collect energy without being affected by day-night cycles or weather conditions. China has announced an ambitious plan to build solar power stations in space using super-heavy rockets.