Shoot lasers at the moon, solve Earth’s energy crisis. Boom. Done. Next global problem please, we’re on a roll. This is the statement I wish Japan’s Shimizu Corp. had released about their new energy plan, but alas they’ve simply just announced the details of a scheme to harvest solar power from panels on the moon. But, what a plan it is.
Robots will build a belt of solar panels to encircle the moon. The panels will gather up energy from the sun, convert it to electricity and then channel the electricity by cable around to the Earth-facing side of the moon. From there the power will be zapped to large receivers on Earth’s surface using lasers. Why did it take so long for someone to propose this?
The Luna Ring plan, which was introduced in Tokyo, is only the most recent in a long line of envelope pushing, seemingly kooky ideas to come from Shimizu Corp. But, the company seems serious about their plan proposing that the Luna Ring could begin construction by the year 2035.
Judging from the amount of technology needed (a working robot colony on the moon?) and the financial drain attempting such a project would entail, we won’t be holding our breath for this one. Although, because the moon already drives ocean tides the idea of finding even more uses for the moon isn’t completely crazy. Shimizu’s plan might seem like something straight out of a comedy routine, but its not like they’re trying to blow up the moon or anything. Right?
(via CNN Go)
