Anthony Rafael Peters

Finalist for the Douglas Chalmers Graduate Scholars Lectureship (Spring 2024)

Proposal summary: My research in the topic of space based solar (SBS) radiofrequency (RF) microwave power beaming. This technology is important because it addresses renewable energy limitations, such as wind and solar power intermittency due to variability in wind and clear sky conditions, as well as energy accessibility for remote areas of the planet. There are many impoverished areas of the world that do not have access to energy and may also have geographic limitations where the topography can inhibit access to energy distribution systems or grids, or even standalone renewable energy technologies such as solar power. SBS is a niche application that requires intense research in multiple areas to ensure future mission program success.

These research areas covered in my studies include (but are not limited to): (1) use of SBS satellites to address growing energy needs, (2) astrodynamics modeling for optimized orbits, (3) photovoltaic damage assessments due to space radiation, (4) finite element analysis of particle-matter interactions on various semiconductor materials, and (5) modeling of earth-space propagation losses due to RF energy transmission through the atmosphere. SBS provides a unique way to deliver clean, continuous energy to all areas of the world, as well as provide wireless energy to other satellites in various orbits. This allows for satellites to become smaller, and lighter, which requires less fuel to launch them into orbit.

Anthony Peters is an active duty Lieutenant Commander in the United States Navy attached to the United States Space Force, and have served as a Navy Pilot, Intelligence Officer, and Aerospace Engineering Duty Officer. Academic Background: B.S. in Applied Engineering from Drexel University, M.S. in Aeronautics from Embry Riddle, a M.S. and PhD in Electrical and Energy Engineering from the University of North Dakota, and currently a Doctor of Engineering Science (EngScD) candidate at Columbia University. Research interests include: photovoltaics, photonics, astrodynamics, and particle-matter interactions in semiconductor materials.