Wireless Power Transmission for lunar applications

Wireless Power Transmission (WPT) is a viable technique to ensure continuous energy supply on the lunar surface, independent of lunar night cycles and location. A constellation of satellites orbiting the Moon, with the goal of collecting solar energy through their own solar panels and transmitting it to the surface via laser beam, allows for energy potentially anywhere on the lunar surface and surviving the lunar night in both energy and thermal terms. This paper analyzes the possible orbits of satellites to provide power for the most part of the lunar surface, starting with the lunar South Pole, which currently presents itself as the most interesting area for upcoming missions and future lunar bases. In addition, the requirements and possible solutions for the satellite navigation system around the Moon and the laser beam pointing system are discussed.