POWERSAT initiative explores space-based energy recovery to boost satellite efficiency

• The European POWERSAT project is developing technologies to capture wasted energy on spacecraft, potentially increasing satellite power by up to 10%.
• Two primary methods are being explored: harvesting radio frequency "spillover" and capturing infrared sunlight that conventional solar panels miss.
• The research focuses on making hardware sufficiently small, robust, and efficient for the harsh space environment.

Energy Harvesting Techniques

• Radio-frequency recovery: The project utilizes "rectennas" (rectifying antennas) to capture stray radio waves emitted during satellite communications. This additional power could support low-power sensors or enable backscattering communication between satellites.
• Infrared light harvesting: Researchers are developing microscopic antennas capable of converting infrared light into electricity. These devices could reach efficiencies of 80% and are designed to function alongside standard solar panels.

Implementation and Future Outlook

• Challenges: Fabricating complex diodes and ensuring the hardware survives launch and orbit conditions are significant technical hurdles.
• Timeline: A demonstration of microwave energy harvesting is targeted for the end of 2026, though operational deployment in space may be 10 years away.
• Broader Impact: By reducing energy waste, the project aims to extend the operational life of satellites and provide support for emerging EU initiatives like the IRIS² secure connectivity program.