Interstellar Photovoltaics for Exploring Alien Solar Systems
George F. Smoot
TL;DR
This paper discusses the development of interstellar photovoltaics, particularly organic thin-film types, for exploring alien solar systems by harnessing local star power to enable data collection and communication.
Contribution
It introduces tailored organic thin-film photovoltaics optimized for specific stars to facilitate interstellar exploration and data transmission.
Findings
Design considerations for star-specific photovoltaic tailoring
Potential for powering AI and communication systems in interstellar probes
Feasibility of using lightweight photovoltaics for deep space exploration
Abstract
Explore alien solar systems via local star power using interstellar photovoltaics, tailored for the particular target star for maximum power and low mass. We consider tailored organic thin-film photovoltaics. Key for sensing, sending more data back and powering A.I. to send back observational summaries and interesting events and observations. This plus other technology developments are necessary for exploring Alien Solar Systems in the not too distant future.
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Taxonomy
TopicsSpacecraft Design and Technology · solar cell performance optimization · Space Science and Extraterrestrial Life