Story perspectives

China Explores Space Solar Power for Military Applications

4/5/2026

Summary

Story summary

Duan Baoyan, a senior Chinese scientist, describes space-based solar power's military potential, noting energy beamed from orbit could enhance surveillance and electronic warfare.
In a recent paper, he notes orbital infrastructure could support communication and reconnaissance under the Zhuri initiative.
Duan emphasizes narrow, steerable microwave beams for efficient energy transmission, which could enable jamming communications.
China is advancing space-based solar power development, offering continuous sunlight.

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Story summary

Duan Baoyan, a senior Chinese scientist, describes space-based solar power's military potential, noting energy beamed from orbit could enhance surveillance and electronic warfare.
In a recent paper, he notes orbital infrastructure could support communication and reconnaissance under the Zhuri initiative.
Duan emphasizes narrow, steerable microwave beams for efficient energy transmission, which could enable jamming communications.
China is advancing space-based solar power development, offering continuous sunlight.