Solar power satellites, if developed, could supply a large proportion of the world's future electrical energy requirements in a safe and pollution-free manner. However, such enormous orbiting structures, with masses of up to 100000 tonnes, can only be built and operated if suitable transportation systems are provided. This Report reviews the options available for lifting both heavy payloads and personnel to low earth orbit, and from there to geostationary orbit. It is concluded that conventional launcher technology, using liquid hydrogen/liquid oxygen engines, should be adequate for the former task. The latter can best be accomplished using electric propulsion, with ion thrusters being the most suitable devices, owing to their high efficiency and advanced state of development. Environmental effects of such a transportation system are considered, and it is concluded that they should not prove to be unacceptable. (Author)


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