A new documentary showcases the groundbreaking achievement of three Caltech professors who successfully demonstrated wireless power transmission from space to Earth for the first time. “Bright Harvest: Powering Earth From Space” chronicles the decade-long journey that could revolutionize how humanity generates clean, sustainable energy.
The film, produced by philanthropist and Caltech Trustee Brigitte Bren and written, directed, and produced by Steven Reich, follows professors Harry Atwater, Ali Hajimiri, and Sergio Pellegrino. Their collaboration reached an important milestone in 2023 with the launch of the Space Solar Power Demonstrator, marking a historic breakthrough in renewable energy technology.
“From the very beginning, our commitment has been rooted in the belief that real change comes from daring to imagine what’s possible,” said Brigitte Bren. “‘Bright Harvest’ is an invitation to everyone to join in shaping a future powered by the sun — anytime, anywhere.”
The ambitious research project received crucial funding from Donald Bren, Irvine Company Chairman and Brigitte Bren’s husband. Bren first became fascinated with space-based solar energy as a young reader of Popular Science. In 2011, he approached Caltech with the idea of funding research that might transform his childhood dream into a global solution.
The successful demonstration proved that space solar power is no longer science fiction. The technology could provide 24/7 renewable energy that can be delivered on demand anywhere on Earth, addressing one of humanity’s most pressing challenges.
“Beaming solar power from space is an innovative approach to 24/7 renewable energy that can be delivered on demand anywhere on Earth,” said Caltech President Thomas F. Rosenbaum. “‘Bright Harvest’ captures a milestone critical for the world of tomorrow—proof that space solar power is a realistic possibility.”
Filmmaker Steven Reich emphasized the human story behind the scientific achievement.
“When I first met the three professors behind this project, I marveled at their unique collaboration and pioneering spirit on their quest to change the world,” Reich said. “We hope this film inspires audiences to blaze their own trails, along with the reminder that anything is possible — even something as audacious as powering earth from space.”
The successful in-orbit demonstrations represent a major step toward continuous solar power generation. Unlike traditional solar panels that depend on weather and daylight, space-based solar arrays could collect energy around the clock and transmit it wirelessly to receivers on Earth.
Rosenbaum views the film as more than just documentation of a scientific milestone.
“This film is an invitation to all sectors of society — scientists, policy makers, citizens — to embrace this future together,” he said.
Reich hopes the documentary will inspire action beyond the scientific community.
“If our film moves even one mind, or sparks one person to action, then we’ve fulfilled its purpose,” he said.
Caltech is hosting a free screening of the documentary on Monday, October 27, at 7:30 p.m. in Beckman Auditorium, located at 332 S Michigan Ave in Pasadena.
The screening will be followed by a discussion with professors Atwater, Hajimiri, and Pellegrino. Seating is limited, and advance ticket reservations are required.
Free tickets may be had here: https://ci.ovationtix.com/36761/production/1251544?performanceId=11694200
Additional information about the documentary and upcoming screenings is available at poweringearthfromspace.com.
Get our daily Pasadena newspaper in your email box. Free.
Get all the latest Pasadena news, more than 10 fresh stories daily, 7 days a week at 7 a.m.
