A TANKFUL OF SUNSHINE. FILLING STATIONS OF THE FUTURE COULD GET THEIR FUEL FROM SPACE

A feasibility study to obtain hydrogen fuel by using a satellite to convert solar energy into a powerful laser beam capable of breaking up water molecules is described. A series of mirrors and lenses inside the satellite concentrates the solar energy. A solar pump is then used to convert the light into a powerful laser beam. This would be targeted at a reactor on Earth containing particles of titanium dioxide suspended in water. The oxide particles act as a catalyst enabling the energy from the light to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. It is suggested that the conversion plant be set up on an artificial island near Japan, using seawater as a raw material.