Peter Glaser
Early Life and Education
Peter Glaser was born on September 5, 1923, in Zatec, Czechoslovakia. He completed his high school education in Prague and later moved to the United States in 1948. He pursued his higher education at the Columbia University, New York, where he received his Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1950. He further continued his studies and earned his Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1951 and a Doctorate in Nuclear Engineering in 1955 from the same university.
Career
Glaser started his career as a Research Associate at the Columbia University in 1955. He worked on various projects related to nuclear power systems and their applications in space exploration. In 1956, he joined Arthur D. Little, Inc., a consulting firm based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, as a Senior Physicist. He was later promoted to Vice President in 1968 and held the position until 1991.
During his tenure at Arthur D. Little, Inc., Glaser made significant contributions to the field of solar energy. He is best known for his work on the concept of Solar Power Satellites (SPS), which he proposed in 1968. This concept involves the collection of solar energy in space and its transmission to Earth via microwaves. This innovative idea has the potential to provide an unlimited source of renewable energy and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.
In addition to his work on SPS, Glaser also contributed to the development of various technologies related to space exploration. He worked on the design and development of the Apollo Lunar Module, which was used in the Apollo missions to land astronauts on the moon. He also worked on the development of the Skylab, the first United States space station.
Glaser has also been involved in various professional organizations related to space exploration and energy. He served as the President of the International Astronautical Federation from 1987 to 1990 and the President of the International Solar Energy Society from 1991 to 1993.
Awards and Honors
Over the course of his career, Glaser has received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to the field of space exploration and solar energy. In 1974, he was awarded the NASA Exceptional Scientific Achievement Medal for his work on the Apollo Lunar Module. He was also awarded the International Astronautical Federation's Hermann Oberth Award in 1993 for his contributions to the advancement of space technology. In 1999, he was inducted into the Space Foundation's Space Technology Hall of Fame for his work on the Solar Power Satellite concept.
Later Life and Legacy
After retiring from Arthur D. Little, Inc., in 1991, Glaser continued to advocate for the development and implementation of Solar Power Satellites. He founded the company Solar Power Satellite Corporation in 1998 to further develop and commercialize the technology. He also continued to contribute to the field of solar energy through his research and publications.
Peter Glaser passed away on May 29, 2014. His innovative ideas and contributions to the field of space exploration and solar energy continue to inspire scientists and engineers around the world.
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