‘Night-time solar energy’ could one day power satellites
CNN • • general
Key Points:
- Researchers at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) have developed a thermoradiative diode that generates electricity by emitting infrared radiation, effectively working as a "reverse solar panel" that produces power from heat released by the Earth at night.
- Although the current device generates only a tiny fraction of the power of conventional solar panels, its real potential lies in space applications, where the absence of atmosphere creates a greater temperature difference, allowing satellites to harness energy during periods without direct sunlight.
- NASA scientists are exploring thermoradiative diodes for deep space missions and lunar rovers, aiming to create lighter, more efficient power systems that use radioactive isotopes as heat sources, potentially replacing heavier and more expensive thermoelectric generators.
- Challenges remain
