In-situ electric power generation to support solar system exploration and colonization: manufacture of thin film silicon solar cells on the Moon

Abstract

The long term exploration and colonization of the solar system for scientific research and commercial interests depends critically on the availability of electrical energy. In addition, the long term potential for humans to settle in space requires self-sufficiency and therefore, self-sustaining electrical power systems. This can be attained on the Moon by utilizing the indigenous resources present there through the fabrication of solar cells using thin film growth technology and the vacuum environment present on the surface of the Moon. Thin film silicon-based solar cells will be fabricated directly on the surface of the Moon over a period of time to form a power system that can reach 1 MW in several years. This unique approach for the emplacement of a safe electric power system on the Moon would require the transportation of a much smaller mass of equipment to the Moon than would otherwise be required to install a power system brought to the Moon, and would result in a power system that was repairable/replaceable through the simple fabrication of more solar cells.