The Robinhood founder who might just revolutionize energy, if he succeeds

Baiju Bhatt, co-founder of the Robinhood trading app, has shifted his focus from finance to space technology by launching Aetherflux, a company aiming to revolutionize energy delivery from space. Unlike traditional space solar power concepts that rely on massive geostationary satellites and microwave transmission, Bhatt’s approach uses smaller, more agile satellites equipped with fiber lasers. These satellites convert solar energy into focused light beams that can be precisely targeted to ground receivers, offering a more practical and scalable solution. Aetherflux plans to launch a demonstration satellite by June next year. Bhatt’s initial focus is on national defense, with funding approved by the U.S. Department of Defense. The technology promises to provide energy to forward military bases without the logistical challenges of fuel transport. The system’s precision allows for a laser spot on the ground as small as five to ten meters, with compact, portable receivers that have minimal strategic value if captured by adversaries. If successful, Aetherflux could significantly enhance U