Aetherflux: The Bold Leap into Space Solar Power with Laser Technology by Robinhood's Co-Founder

Summary:

Aetherflux, co-founded by Baiju Bhatt, aims to beam solar power from space to Earth.
Secured $50 million in funding, with a demonstration planned for 2026.
Utilizing infrared lasers for power transmission, differing from traditional microwave methods.
Portable ground stations will deliver power to remote areas and military operations.
Facing challenges such as temperature fluctuations and beam synchronization.

The Vision of Space Solar Power

Space solar power is often seen as a ludicrous idea, yet billionaire and Robinhood co-founder Baiju Bhatt is on a mission to make it a reality with his startup Aetherflux.

Funding and Ambitions

Having secured $50 million in Series A funding from notable Silicon Valley investors, Aetherflux is set to demonstrate its technology in 2026. The company aims to beam solar energy from satellites directly to Earth, a concept likened to Starlink for electricity.

Global Efforts in Solar Energy from Space

Aetherflux is not alone in this venture. Other initiatives have emerged globally:

In 2022, China constructed a 246-ft tall ground verification system for solar energy transmission research.
The European Space Agency is also exploring similar technologies.
In 2023, Caltech successfully demonstrated power transmission from a satellite using microwaves.

Aetherflux's Unique Approach

Aetherflux is pioneering a different approach by:

Utilizing infrared lasers instead of microwaves for higher power output and smaller ground station footprints.
Planning to deploy a constellation of small satellites in Low Earth Orbit to transmit power.

Portable ground stations measuring 5-10 m in diameter will facilitate the delivery of electricity to remote locations, disaster-struck areas, and military operations, with support from the US Department of Defense.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the ambitious plans, challenges remain:

The satellites could face damaging temperature fluctuations.
Precise beam synchronization is crucial for effective power transmission.

Future Plans

With a total of $60 million in funding, Aetherflux is gearing up for its 2026 demonstration in Low Earth Orbit, utilizing a satellite bus from Apex Space.

Aetherflux Satellite Bus Image: Aetherflux will use an Aeries satellite bus from LA-based platform provider Apex Space.