Previous Year Question
Consider the following statements:
Assertion (A): Space Based Solar Power (SBSP), it is suggested be made a national goal.
Reason (R): Supply of SBSP is 99% uninterrupted throughout the year, besides the enormity of energy availability.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
(A) is true, but (R) is false
(A) is false but (R) is true
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
Assertion (A) is correct. The concept of Space Based Solar Power (SBSP) involves collecting solar energy through large solar collectors in Earth orbit and transmitting it to receiving stations on Earth through microwaves or another form of wireless transmission.
Reason (R) is also correct. A suitably placed Solar Power Satellite in geostationary orbit is not affected to the same extent as a terrestrial solar plant by day-night cycles, clouds or weather. Historical NASA studies indicate that a Solar Power Satellite in geostationary orbit can remain in sunlight for about 99% of the time. This comparatively continuous generation is therefore one of the major advantages of SBSP.
In addition, solar radiation in space avoids many of the limitations imposed by Earth's atmosphere, clouds, dust and the terrestrial day-night cycle. Consequently, the available solar-energy resource is enormous and theoretically allows a more continuous energy supply.
This near-continuous availability and enormous energy potential provides a major basis for considering SBSP as a significant strategic energy objective. Therefore, Reason (R) correctly explains Assertion (A).
Current Status (2026): SBSP remains a futuristic technology. ISRO has included Space-Based-Solar-Power among the disruptive and futuristic technologies for which it has initiated Research & Development activities.