Solar system
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Understanding the Solar System: Formation, Components, and Energy Applications
Formation and Dynamics of the Solar System
The solar system, our immediate cosmic neighborhood, formed approximately 4.6 billion years ago from the gravitational collapse of a region within a large molecular cloud. This process led to the creation of the Sun and the surrounding planets, satellites, asteroids, comets, and interplanetary dust1 7. The dynamics of the solar system are characterized by various orbital and rotational resonances, migration of small bodies, and collisional interactions, which have significantly influenced its evolution7.
Components of the Solar System
Major Planets and Satellites
The solar system comprises eight major planets, which are categorized into terrestrial solid planets (Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars) and giant gaseous-icy planets (Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune)7. Nearly all the satellites in the solar system orbit the giant planets, which also possess intricate ring systems7.
Small Bodies: Asteroids, Comets, and Interplanetary Dust
In addition to the major planets, the solar system contains numerous small bodies, including asteroids, comets, meteoroids, and interplanetary dust. These small bodies are considered remnants from the solar system's formation and have preserved pristine matter, offering valuable insights into its early history1 7.
Solar Energy Applications in Space and on Earth
Solar Cells for Spacecraft
Solar cells (SCs) are the primary energy generation systems for aerospace applications due to their reliability and efficiency. III–V multijunction solar cells (MJSCs) are the standard technology for powering spacecraft, thanks to their high power conversion efficiency and stability in orbit. However, cheaper silicon-based SCs are still used to reduce satellite launch costs. Emerging technologies like Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) and perovskite solar cells (PSCs) show promise due to their lightweight, flexible, and cost-effective properties, along with exceptional radiation resistance2.
Solar-Driven Polygeneration Systems
Solar energy is a crucial resource for addressing global energy challenges. Solar-driven polygeneration systems, which can produce multiple energy outputs such as electricity, cooling, heating, fresh water, and hydrogen, are highly efficient and sustainable. Technologies like parabolic trough collectors, concentrating thermal photovoltaics, and solar towers are particularly effective in these systems, making them viable for future energy solutions4.
Solar Energy in Residential Buildings
Solar energy systems, particularly photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal systems, are widely used in residential buildings to reduce energy consumption and move towards nearly Net Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB). PV systems can cover the annual electricity demand of a residential building with a payback period of less than seven years. Solar combi systems, which provide both heating and electricity, also offer significant energy savings and are economically viable compared to conventional heating systems5.
Optimization of Solar Systems
Artificial intelligence methods, such as artificial neural networks and genetic algorithms, are used to optimize solar energy systems for maximum economic benefits. These methods can significantly reduce the design time and improve the efficiency of solar systems by accurately estimating the optimal size of components like collector areas and storage tanks6.
Conclusion
The solar system, with its diverse array of celestial bodies and dynamic interactions, provides a fascinating field of study that extends from understanding our immediate cosmic environment to harnessing solar energy for various applications. Advances in solar technology, both for space and terrestrial applications, continue to offer promising solutions for sustainable energy production and efficient resource utilization.
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Most relevant research papers on this topic
The Solar System
This second edition provides up-to-date information on the solar system, its formation, interaction with the interplanetary medium, and future space exploration.
Highly CitedSolar Energy in Space Applications: Review and Technology Perspectives
Solar cells for aerospace applications show promise, with Cu(In,Ga)Se2 (CIGS) and perovskite solar cells (PSCs) showing promising properties like lightweightness, flexibility, and radiation resistance.
Highly CitedTHE SOLAR SYSTEM
Solar System, and to emphasize the importance of studying our Sun for understanding the conditions in other suns.
Solar-driven polygeneration systems: Recent progress and outlook
Solar-driven polygeneration systems with parabolic trough collectors, concentrating thermal photovoltaics, and solar towers can be sustainable and viable for future energy commodities.
Literature ReviewHighly CitedSolar energy systems potential for nearly net zero energy residential buildings
Solar energy systems can effectively cover at least 76% of the primary energy demand in residential buildings, making them a viable solution towards nearly Net Zero Energy Buildings.
Highly CitedOptimization of solar systems using artificial neural-networks and genetic algorithms
Artificial neural-networks and genetic algorithms can optimize solar systems, maximizing life-cycle savings and reducing design time for industrial process heat-systems.
Highly CitedSolar Photovoltaic and Thermal Energy Systems: Current Technology and Future Trends
Solar photovoltaic and thermal energy systems are competitive solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial applications, with future expectations focusing on cost, technology, and power electronics converter systems.
Highly CitedBuilding Integration Of Solar Energy Systems
Solar buildings combine various technologies to achieve energy efficiency, solar heating and cooling, and PV power, making them more holistically designed than traditional buildings.
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