Why Solar Power Is Not Suitable for Ships in The Expanse: Challenges and Limitations

While the idea of harnessing solar energy for ship propulsion is appealing, it faces significant challenges in practical application. In the scientifically rich world of The Expanse, where advanced technologies and propulsion methods are central to the narrative, the use of solar power as a primary energy source is not without its limitations. In this article, we will explore why solar energy is not a viable solution for ships in such a setting, and discuss the feasibility and practical considerations of solar-powered ships.

Challenges of Solar Power in Ship Propulsion

The primary challenge of relying on solar energy for ship propulsion is the vast distances and variable energy requirements of space travel. In an environment where ships often travel at significant fractions of the speed of light or at relativistic speeds, solar power alone cannot provide the immense energy output needed.

Space Limitations and Energy Requirements

A common argument against solar power for large ships is the space limitations. Solar panels require a large surface area to generate adequate power. For instance, the Cassini spacecraft, which relied on solar panels before switching to nuclear power, had massive panels. In the The Expanse universe, such space constraints are even more pronounced. The size and displacement of a ship significantly affect the available space for solar panels, thereby limiting the efficiency of solar energy capture.

Energy-Intensive Operations

Modern ships in the The Expanse often engage in missions that demand continuous and high-intensity power usage. These could include military engagements, exploration, cargo transportation, and even simple navigation. Solar energy systems would struggle to meet these high-energy demands, especially during periods of low solar flux, such as when a ship is in deep space or behind a celestial body.

Feasibility of Solar-Powered Ships

While solar energy has been proposed as a solution for ships in The Expanse, the reality is that relying solely on solar power is not feasible. The article by the author on Quora titled “Solar Energy in Maritime Applications” explores these challenges in more detail. According to the author, fully relying on solar panels for large vessels presents practical challenges due to space limitations and the high energy requirements of modern ship operations.

Comparison with Other Propulsion Methods

In the context of The Expanse, the use of atomic power or fusion drives is seen as a more practical and efficient solution. These methods provide the high-energy output needed for rapid acceleration, maneuvering, and sustained high-speed travel. For example, ships in the show often use fusion drives, which are depicted as powerful and reliable sources of energy.

Solar Sails vs. Traditional Propulsion

While solar sails offer a unique method of propulsion for certain types of missions, such as deep space exploration, they are not suitable for most voyages. Solar sails move by capturing the momentum of photons from the sun, which results in gradual acceleration. This method is not efficient for rapid acceleration or for carrying heavy payloads, such as food and humans, over long distances. As the The Expanse author points out, using solar sails would make most voyages slow and impractical.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while solar energy has its merits, the practical limitations of space travel, high energy requirements, and the need for rapid and reliable propulsion make it a less viable option for ships in the The Expanse universe. The reliance on alternative propulsion methods such as atomic power and fusion drives reflects the necessity for efficient and reliable energy sources in modern space exploration.

Keywords: solar energy, The Expanse, ship propulsion