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Characteristics :
49 mirrors of 30 x 30 cm
3000 Watts effective
950°C
can convert 45 L of water to steam per hour
similar to a Vesta, but larger
Vertical concentrator for semi industrial needs The Apollo solar concentrating array is the most powerful configuration of Solar Fire technologies. At around 2.5kw a single Apollo is not as powerful as the Helios, but it has been subtly modified such that a line or grid of Apollos can be synchronized and attached in series, harnessing many times the power of a single unit, though needing no more adjusting than a single unit.
Seen here, 2 Apollo arrays are connected both via a steam pipe at the top, which directs the outputs of the system to a single endpoint, and via cables which enable the user to control both units at once. Due to its high focal point, the Apollo is best suited to applications where the user does not often need to access the focal point, such as water purification and steam production. A file of ten Apollos can raise 45kg of steam an hour and will cost around $3000 (a single unit costs $300).
Named for the Greek god of light and truth, the Apollo array is our answer to the question “how much energy can we capture, using Solar Fire methods?” The Apollo verges on industrial energy levels, while still being made up of component parts which can be fabricated off-the-shelf in most countries on earth.
The construction of the Apollo is similar enough to that of the Vesta and Prometheus to be readily understood. 49 mirrors must be created and placed on a frame instead of 30, and the target mount is, as the picture shows, somewhat different. When it is finished, the Apollo construction guide will illustrate the specifics of the technology. For now, you can check out the construction guide for building the 9 faceted compound mirror making process.
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