The Pentagon's Operational Energy Capability Improvement Fund has announced the Overview award, the second space-based solar power contract to come from the fund in recent weeks. The award brings the Department of Defense a step closer to demonstrating the ability to beam solar power from space.
Space-based solar power is seen as a potential way to provide energy to military operations without relying on local fuel supplies. The contract announcement indicates continued interest in the concept, though the source does not disclose the award amount or the contractor.
Because this is the second contract from the same fund in a short period, it suggests a deliberate push to mature the technology. For those tracking defense procurement and energy policy, the award is a signal that space-based solar power is moving from concept toward demonstration.