This program is presented as part of a partnership between the National  Air and Space Museum and Fairfax Network.

How does the Sun’s energy become a source that we can use to power our everyday lives and to power exploration? What technologies allow us to efficiently harness the Sun’s energy? What innovations are next?

This program in the Innovation Workshop Series highlights the science and engineering of how radiant energy is transformed into other useful forms of energy. By investigating the solar panels on the International Space Station, students discover the power of this renewable energy source. Students watch as a solar airplane makes a historic flight across the United States — without a drop of fuel — revealing innovative design and development. By exploring the power of solar energy, students learn its impact on our lives and its future in energy development.

With the assistance of scientists, planetary educators and content experts, students will learn the power of solar energy and its impact on our future and the future of energy development.

Program segments include:

• how solar telescopes reveal new information about our dynamic Sun
• the complexity of using photovoltaics in space
• how Skylab's solar observatory advanced our understanding of the Sun

This program is made possible by the Gertrude E. Skelly Charitable Foundation.