What engineering advantage results from placing solar power arrays on high peaks near south pole craters versus equatorial sites?
Answer
Near-constant, around-the-clock power generation
The south pole exhibits a stark illumination contrast: while crater floors are in eternal shadow, the rims and peaks extending high above them experience near-constant sunlight due to the very low angle of the Sun. Placing solar power arrays on these continuously illuminated peaks allows them to generate power around the clock. This consistent power source negates the need for the massive, complex battery storage systems that would otherwise be required to survive the long nighttime periods encountered at equatorial landing locations.
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