ispace selected for JAXA lunar solar power tower design

(SpaceEnergy) Japan's ispace has been selected by JAXA to undertake conceptual design work on a lunar solar power tower intended to support sustained exploration near the Moon's south pole.

The Japanese lunar exploration company announced its selection on 22 October following a competitive solicitation covering the conceptual design of the tower and associated electricity distribution infrastructure.

The programme will define system requirements, technical specifications and development plans for a solar electricity installation capable of supporting lunar surface equipment.

JAXA anticipates that exploration activities could require electricity supplies in the tens of kilowatts by the early 2030s.

The agency is investigating elevated solar arrays because sunlight reaches the lunar polar regions at consistently low angles, creating challenges for conventional surface-mounted photovoltaic systems.

Following contract execution, ispace plans to work with partner companies on the tower's conceptual design, including its electrical distribution system and interfaces with lunar landers.

The work will draw on the company's experience developing lunar landing systems and operating spacecraft.

JAXA intends to use the study to refine its design approach from the Japanese financial year beginning in 2027.

The agency is considering a launch in Japanese financial year 2030 or later.

ispace has been selected as a prospective contractor, but the agreement remains subject to contract finalisation.

Neither the contract value nor the tower's final electrical output, height, photovoltaic technology or deployment configuration has been disclosed.