A method of providing power beams via a network of source nodes. Source nodes are configured to receive requests for power beam service from airborne user nodes such as aircraft equipped with photovoltaic receivers. User nodes are configured to communicate a set of parameters, such as location, mobility, field of regard, one or more beam wavelengths compatible with the receiver, the beam wavelength further described with a maximum sustained power, duty cycle and pulse repetition rate. Source nodes publish parameters to a network control system. Source nodes publish their location, velocity vector, orientation, available beam capacity, and a schedule of user nodes currently receiving service from the node. Source nodes selectively receive requests from user nodes, and respond to the requests to satisfy the user node parameters. Relays may be used to avoid obstructions, and deconflicting sensors and obstruction sensors may be used detect unauthorized or unusable beam paths.