First-Ever Screening of Documentary, "Bright Harvest: Powering Earth From Space," Scheduled Oct. 13 at Harvard University; Film Showcases Professors' Groundbreaking Work to Harness Solar Energy fr...
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Oct. 2, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A bold vision to solve one of humanity's most pressing challenges—the need for clean, sustainable energy—takes center stage in the new documentary "Bright Harvest: Powering Earth From Space." Produced by philanthropist Brigitte Bren, wife of Irvine Company Chairman Donald Bren and Member of the Harvard University Master in Real Estate Council, and written, directed, and produced by Steven Reich, the film chronicles the extraordinary journey of three Caltech professors as they work to make space-based solar power a reality.
Brigitte Bren's leadership and commitment to advancing transformational ideas played a pivotal role in bringing "Bright Harvest" to the screen. "From the very beginning, our commitment has been rooted in the belief that real change comes from daring to imagine what's possible," said Mrs. Bren. "'Bright Harvest' is an invitation to everyone to join in shaping a future powered by the sun – anytime, anywhere."
At the heart of the film is the story of Caltech professors Harry Atwater, Ali Hajimiri, and Sergio Pellegrino, whose decade-long collaboration culminated in the 2023 launch of the Space Solar Power Demonstrator. Their achievement marked a historic breakthrough: the first successful demonstration of wireless power transmission from space to Earth.
The project was fueled by the vision and philanthropy of Donald Bren, who first became fascinated with the concept of space-based solar energy as a young reader of Popular Science. In 2011, he approached Caltech with the idea of funding ambitious research that might transform his childhood dream into a global solution.
Filmmaker Steven Reich reflected on capturing the professors' journey:
"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," said Mr. Reich. "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. If our film moves even one mind, or sparks one person to action, then we've fulfilled its purpose."
Harvard University's Graduate School of Design is hosting the first-ever screening of the film, to be followed by a discussion with Mrs. Bren and Mr. Reich moderated by Harvard Professor Jerold Kayden. Seating is limited, please register for the event here.
Monday, Oct. 13, 5:30 p.m.
Harvard University Graduate School of Design
Gund Hall, Piper Auditorium
48 Quincy Street
Cambridge, Mass.
Jerold Kayden, Frank Backus Williams Professor of Urban Planning and Design and Founding Director of the Master in Real Estate Program at the Harvard University Graduate School of Design, discussed Harvard's interest in showcasing "Bright Harvest."
"The film beautifully captures how out-of-the-box thinking supported by the impressive persistence of three professors led to a breakthrough that, at scale, could revolutionize how power is produced and consumed around the world," Professor Kayden said. "What makes this film of special interest to designers, planners, and real estate practitioners at our school is the reality that the design of the built environment depends in large measure on how it is powered. Bren and Reich have given us a dramatic insider's look at what could be one of the great technological triumphs of the 21st century."
Audiences are invited to learn more about the documentary and upcoming screenings by visiting poweringearthfromspace.com.
Media Contact:
Stuart Pfeifer
(310) 415-6955
stuart@lagstrategy.com
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