Satellite solar energy systems

Abstract

Summary form only given. The first space solar array was carried aloft on Vanguard I on March 17, 1958. The array on Vanguard I consisted of six photovoltaic panels mounted on the outer surface of the satellite and produced one watt of power for over six years. Space solar arrays and power systems have grown in size and complexity since 1958, and telecommunications satellites with power systems exceeding 10 kilowatts have been launched into geosynchronous (GEO) orbit. A new class of communication satellites is about to be launched aimed at providing a worldwide portable telephone interconnection service. In many cases the power system on each individual satellite will approach 10 kilowatts, and the large numbers of spacecraft required to complete one of these constellations place a very heavy emphasis on achieving low cost at every stage, from development to assembly to launch. Cost savings can be obtained by employing as much commonality as possible on each satellite, but an entirely new generation of low cost, high performance solar arrays will be required to enable such systems to meet their cost targets. The same is true for the energy storage system. This paper provides a brief overview of a typical satellite power system along with the current status of space solar cell and array development in the US. A brief description of current and near term battery technology is also included. The discussion concludes with a description of new initiatives by NASA to develop high efficiency, thin film, low cost solar arrays and batteries for future satellite applications.