Eli5: How are those experimental sattelites which transport energy from space to earth not giant deathrays?
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A death ray requires an enormous amount of power. The Space Solar Power Demonstrator sent a very small amount of energy to a rooftop receiver, so there was little to no risk to people. The system uses microwave energy, which is commonly used throughout earth, most frequently for Internet/network transmission. As systems improve and increase power, operators will need to ensure that unsafe levels of transmitted energy are not directed at people. Today’s practices of elevating signals and fencing in transmission and reception areas will likely be sufficient. More info is available from the FAA’s RF Safety FAQ… [https://www.fcc.gov/engineering-technology/electromagnetic-compatibility-division/radio-frequency-safety/faq/rf-safety](https://www.fcc.gov/engineering-technology/electromagnetic-compatibility-division/radio-frequency-safety/faq/rf-safety)
While the aim does have to be incredibly precise over such a distance, it’s also very predictable/calculable as the rotation of the earth and the orbit of the satellite are constant, there’s no forces acting on either that would cause it to wobble about and accidentally beam the wrong thing.
So long as it’s kept out of the flight path of aircraft it would be theoretically safe.
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