Thermal and Orbital Simulation of an Innovative Hybrid Space-Based Solar Power Satellite for Energy Transmission Through a Combination of Infrared and Microwave Beaming

The presented study provides an innovative hybrid Space-Based Solar Power Satellite (SBSP) architecture designed to capture both solar and terrestrial infrared radiation for improved energy transmission to Earth. The main feature of the satellite is represented by a dual-input energy collecting system with photovoltaic panels optimized for solar energy capture and thermophotovoltaic devices that convert Earth's infrared radiation into electrical energy. The collected energy is then transferred through high-intensity infrared beams to ground stations, providing flexible energy distribution. Computational ray-tracing simulations performed through Ansys Speos confirm the design robustness and effectiveness, attaining an equilibrium between optical efficacy and thermal stability. Different scenarios and configurations of the constellations made by this kind of innovative satellite are examined both from the thermal and orbital viewpoint, in order to assess energy output and transmission dependability. The performed analysis and simulations prove how this dual-source SBSP satellite exhibits the potential to improve space-based energy systems, providing scalable solutions for renewable energy requirements.