In an exciting breakthrough for space exploration

a collaborative team of researchers from Heriot-Watt University in the UK, alongside experts from Italy, Germany, and Poland, is embarking on a groundbreaking project aimed at revolutionizing how we harness solar energy in space. This innovative initiative will focus on developing a cutting-edge technology that converts sunlight into powerful laser beams, paving the way for efficient energy transmission over vast distances such as from satellites to lunar bases or even back to Earth.

Drawing inspiration from the natural world

the research team is exploring the mechanisms behind photosynthesis—the process through which certain bacteria and plants convert light energy into chemical energy. By incorporating the natural light-harvesting structures of photosynthetic bacteria, which excel in absorbing ambient solar energy, the project seeks to create laser technology that mirrors these efficient biological systems.

Professor Erik Gauger's insights

Professor Erik Gauger, who leads the theoretical modeling component of the project at Heriot-Watt’s Institute of Photonics and Quantum Sciences, highlights the potential applications of this technology: "If successfully developed, our solar laser could power local systems on space stations and enable energy transmission to satellites or back to Earth using infrared laser beams."

The APACE project

The initiative, called the APACE project, is jointly funded by the European Innovation Council and Innovate UK and brings together an international consortium to create these solar-powered lasers. With the number of satellites and future space missions on the rise, reliable and efficient power solutions are more crucial than ever.

Research focus and goals

The research begins by studying the natural light-harvesting systems in specific bacteria that thrive in low-light environments. Concurrently, the team will design artificial versions of these structures, alongside new laser materials compatible with both natural and synthetic light harvesters. The ultimate goal is to combine these components into a revolutionary new laser technology.

Leveraging biological systems

Prof. Gauger emphasizes the ingenuity of leveraging biological systems: "Living organisms are experts at self-sufficiency and self-assembly. Our project takes cues from their functionality to not only enhance energy absorption but to also maximize the impact of sunlight in laser energy production."

Challenges of sunlight as an energy source

Regular sunlight, while abundant, is typically too weak to power lasers directly. However, the unique capabilities of these specially adapted bacteria can amplify sunlight energy by several magnitudes, making it feasible to create lasers capable of operating effectively in space.

Future implications

With the first prototype expected to be operational within three years, the implications of this research extend beyond space exploration. Should the technology prove successful, it could revolutionize terrestrial wireless power transmission, offering sustainable energy solutions that have the potential to change how we approach energy consumption on Earth.

Conclusion

As humanity prepares for ambitious missions to the Moon and Mars, the APACE project stands at the forefront of innovation, merging biological inspiration with cutting-edge technology to illuminate the path to sustainable space exploration. Stay tuned for updates on this exciting journey towards unlocking the power of the universe!