Purpose <p>This paper examines space-based solar power (SBSP) as a potential sustainable energy solution. From a sociological perspective, it explores the technological, economic, social and geopolitical aspects of SBSP.</p> Design/methodology/approach <p>Rather than presenting original empirical data, this theoretical analytical contribution takes an interdisciplinary approach, combining technical documentation from space agencies (NASA, ESA and JAXA), energy production data and sociological literature on energy transitions.</p> Findings <p>SBSP represents a promising but challenging frontier in energy production, with the potential to capture up to 85 percent of solar energy. However, significant barriers remain, including high implementation costs, technological complexity, and governance challenges. Critical issues of energy justice must also be considered, as technological monopolies by advanced nations could exacerbate global inequalities in access to clean energy.</p> Originality/value <p>This paper presents a pioneering sociological analysis of SBSP, establishing Outer Space Studies as a new frontier for energy sociology research. Methodologically, it demonstrates how interdisciplinarity can address emerging socio-technical challenges and contributes to methodological debates in the social sciences, providing insights for sustainable energy policy and global governance frameworks.</p>