Japan Plans Ambitious ‘Solar Ring’ Around the Moon to Power Earth
By Momodu Favour
Japan is exploring an ambitious plan to build a massive solar power ring around the Moon that could one day generate clean energy for Earth.
The proposed project, often referred to as the “Lunar Solar Power” concept, aims to place a continuous belt of solar panels along the Moon’s equator to capture sunlight in space. Because the Moon receives nearly constant sunlight and has no atmosphere to block solar radiation, the system could generate large amounts of electricity.
According to the concept, the solar panels would convert sunlight into electricity and transmit the energy back to Earth using microwave or laser technology.
Ground-based receiving stations would then convert the energy into usable power for cities and industries.
Japanese researchers and engineers believe the system could provide a stable and virtually limitless source of clean energy, potentially helping the world reduce dependence on fossil fuels and tackle climate change.
The idea has been studied by scientists linked to Shimizu Corporation, which has proposed a “Luna Ring” stretching thousands of kilometres around the Moon.
Experts say the project would require major technological breakthroughs, including advanced robotics, large-scale lunar construction, and reliable space-based power transmission systems.
While the concept remains in the research and development stage, scientists say it represents one of the most ambitious long-term energy ideas ever proposed, highlighting growing global interest in space-based solar power.
