Series 2

S2 EP3: Space Based Solar Power

Since the birth of space exploration, we have been transfixed with not only the spectacle of space travel, but the opportunities that this new vantage point provides for technological advancement.

Today, by combining the advances in launch capabilities and in-orbit manufacturing, we are now in a position to develop the infrastructure for a space-based solar power system, capable of providing clean energy for planet earth. The idea is an old one – dreamed up by some of the great writers of science fiction – but it’s the recent advances in our capabilities that are helping to make this possible for our future.

With the UK committed to fully decarbonise by 2050, a major consideration is the delivery of energy through clean generation from renewable sources. But the energy we generate must remain affordable, reliable, and secure for our economy to continue to prosper. This is where Space Based Solar Power stands out from the alternatives.

Episode Guests

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David Homfray

Space Power Lead
Satellite Applications Catapult

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Martin Soltau

Senior Business Manager
Frazer-Nash Consultancy

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Ali Stickings

Space Strategy Lead
Frazer-Nash Consultancy

Episode Host

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Sarah Cruddas


Sarah is a space journalist, international TV host and award winning author. She has an academic background in astrophysics and is a global thought leader in the growing commercial space sector.

Within the space industry Sarah works at the highest level, traveling the globe working to develop the commercial space sector. She also sits on the board of directors of Space for Humanity, a global non-profit dedicated to democratising access to space and is an honorary advocate of the Space Frontier Foundation.

Sarah’s mission is to inspire a diverse audience about why space exploration matters, how it has shaped all of our lives and why we all need to look up a little more. Space is for everyone.

Get in Touch

If you’d like to contact us about any episode of In-Orbit, collaboration opportunities, or to find out more about how we can help your business, please email marketing@sa.catapult.org.uk