China is going to transmit energy to lunar rovers with lasers from lunar orbit

Experts from the China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) and the Shandong Aerospace Electronics Research Institute are developing laser power transfer technologies to power spacecraft on the lunar surface during long night periods, a key challenge for lunar exploration.

The lunar nights, lasting 14 Earth days, pose significant challenges for powering equipment due to the lack of solar energy. Temperatures as low as -200 °C force spacecraft to use energy for heating or go into sleep mode. Alternatives such as nuclear batteries or nuclear reactors have limitations due to high cost, complexity and risks. Laser power transfer offers a flexible solution for power delivery in a variety of conditions, including shaded regions, but the technology needs improvement in terms of performance, transmission range, and accuracy.

Chinese scientists emphasize the need to develop powerful space lasers and high-precision radiation systems. The article states: “It is necessary to focus on the development of powerful space lasers and high-precision laser radiation systems, and orbital verification technology should be’appeared as soon as possible”. The laser energy transfer system is planned to be built in the 2030s, when China will receive a super-heavy launch vehicle for such ambitious projects. Beijing is actively developing its lunar program, including the Chang'e-7 and Chang'e-8 missions, which are planned in 2026 and 2028, which are to explore the resources of the south pole of the Moon and test the technologies for their use. The implementation of laser energy transfer can significantly accelerate these processes, ensuring reliable power supply for research equipment.

European scientists are also working on wireless laser systems. In 2024 the EU consortium demonstrated a 20 W system using a fiber-optic laser, and plans to reach kilowatts. This confirms the global interest in the development of laser power technologies in space.

Thus, laser energy transfer is becoming a promising direction in space science, which can ensure the autonomy of robotic and stationary stations in the harsh conditions of the Moon.