Process for the production of electric energy for spacecraft utilizing the collection of charged particles in space

Abstract

The process of the present application facilitates the production of electric energy for spacecraft by the seizure of beta-minus particles and electrons present in the medium of space above and beyond the planet's atmosphere. The features of the subject process make each spacecraft independent from domestic energy sources as are typically required by other electrical systems. In terms of energy production, the subject process will outperform all of the traditional systems applied to spacecraft including photovoltaic setups, fuel cells, batteries and nuclear systems. Photovoltaic panels situated in space are quickly degraded by bombarding cosmic ray particles and solar wind emissions. Since fuel cells require very high operating temperatures, it exposes the craft, its instrumentation and occupants to constant danger. By utilizing the process of the present application, it is no longer necessary for spacecraft to carry large quantities of chemicals for batteries, fuels and oxidizers for fuel cell generators, hazardous nuclear generators or large bulky photovoltaic panels subject to frequent malfunction. It is an innovative process for the production of electric energy by the attraction and seizure of beta-minus particles and electrons emitted from the Sun's corona as part of the solar wind that permeates the heliosphere. Because it captures free electrons directly, it does not consume power to convert one form of energy into another. It functions continuously throughout and beyond the heliosphere. It can be scaled to accommodate the electric power requirements of all spacecraft, including satellites and space stations. The process will accommodate the electric needs of base stations and surface vehicles situated on various moons and asteroids throughout the solar system including the planets Mercury and Mars. Some of the terms that describe the advantages of the process of the present application are simplicity, efficiency, adaptability, versatility, low energy consumption, and high productivity. Consequently, a reliable, enduring and safe electric power source for space craft has not been available until the development of the process of the present application.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.