Orbit to surface beamed power for Mars bases expansion

A scenario is presented wherein the interplanetary supply vehicles for the expansion of the Mars bases are nuclear powered-electrically propelled. For the initial build-up phase every supply vehicle need not return to earth but could be utilized as a one-way transport to Mars synchronous orbit. Upon arriving at Mars., they would land their cargos with one-way descent vehicles. Base personnel will arrive at Mars in separate 'fast trip' vehicles. Once in the Mars synchronous orbits, the nuclear power system is will longer be needed for propulsion. Thus, this power system - megawatt power range - can be used as an orbital power station beaming its power to locations on the surface of the planet. Placing a number of such power systems at strategically located synchronous orbit positions will permit coverage of the major portion of the Martian surface. The megawatt size power system for one interplanetary electric propulsion vehicle will be capable of supplying a number of surface bases of installations