Our troubled world -- The energy eras -- Solar power satellites begin -- Our energy situation today -- Global warming -- The solution -- The fourth energy era -- A development plan -- What others think -- What is next? -- Stopping energy wars -- Bring energy to the entire world -- The plugged in Earth -- Satellite technology today -- Our future.

Progress in Astronautics and Rocketry, Volume 3: Energy Conversion for Space Power focuses on the use of dependable electric power sources on space vehicles. Composed of various literature, the book first discusses the physics of thermoelectricity, thermoelectric generator of materials, the use of semiconductors in thermoelectric conversion, and the use of high temperature thermoelectric materials for power generation. The text also presents experiments on the effect of irradiation on thermoelectric materials, thermoelectric elements in space power systems, and thermionics. The book then describes photovoltaic effect and conversion of solar energy; trends in silicon solar cell technology; the use of silicon solar cells in energy conversion; and how radiation affects solar cell power systems. The text notes the specifications of batteries if used in communications satellites; the use of positive-displacement engines and turbines on cryogenic power systems; and the characteristics of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) generators in space power conversion. The book is a good source of information for readers and scientists wanting to explore the potential of energy conversion in space power technology.

Space and Energy contains the proceedings of the 26th Congress of the International Astronautical Federation, held in Lisbon, Portugal, on September 21-27, 1975. The papers explore developments and trends of interest as well as research in space and energy. Topics covered range from engineering and life sciences to space systems, space technology, and communication satellites. This book is comprised of 16 chapters and begins with a discussion on the Earth as an open system and how to utilize solar energy. The next section is devoted to engineering and life sciences and includes chapters giving surveys and/or assessments of a number of basic topics in astrodynamics and bioastronautics. Propulsion system concepts for a single stage shuttle are also considered, along with the reliability of outer planet spacecraft and the contribution of biological satellites to space biology and medicine. Specific systems such as an experimental hybrid rocket are also described. The last part evaluates application satellites, with particular reference to communication and earth resource satellites. This monograph should be of interest to space scientists and engineers.

Former NASA Astronaut Harrison Schmitt advocates a private, investor-based approach to returning humans to the Moon—to extract Helium 3 for energy production, to use the Moon as a platform for science and manufacturing, and to establish permanent human colonies there in a kind of stepping stone community on the way to deeper space. With governments playing a supporting role—just as they have in the development of modern commercial aeronautics and agricultural production—Schmitt believes that a fundamentally private enterprise is the only type of organization capable of sustaining such an effort and, eventually, even making it pay off.