Start Date
4-1969 8:00 AM
Description
The solar array/secondary battery system has emerged as the space power "workhorse". Previously considered only for applications of up to 1 KW e , arrays of up to 3 KWe have been flown. Even larger arrays (10 KWe ) are being developed for Apollo Telescope Mount (ATM) and the "wet" Orbital Workshop. An Earth Orbiting Space Laboratory (EOSL) , in the planning state for a 1973- 1975 flight readiness date, is considering the use of a 38 KWe solar array system. A 50 KW e array is under development for an electric propulsion mission and a 45 KWe array is in the conceptual design phase for a lunar surface application. Finally, a study has been initiated to assess the practicability and cost effectiveness of utilizing a 1 MWe array for earth orbital applications.
An intense technology development program has been underway for several years. The emphasis has been on solving problems that relate directly toward utilization of large solar arrays. These have included light weight structures, improved power distribution and cost reduction techniques. This paper discusses the various approaches being taken by both government and industry to resolve these problems.
Large Solar Arrays -The Emerging Space Power Workhorse
The solar array/secondary battery system has emerged as the space power "workhorse". Previously considered only for applications of up to 1 KW e , arrays of up to 3 KWe have been flown. Even larger arrays (10 KWe ) are being developed for Apollo Telescope Mount (ATM) and the "wet" Orbital Workshop. An Earth Orbiting Space Laboratory (EOSL) , in the planning state for a 1973- 1975 flight readiness date, is considering the use of a 38 KWe solar array system. A 50 KW e array is under development for an electric propulsion mission and a 45 KWe array is in the conceptual design phase for a lunar surface application. Finally, a study has been initiated to assess the practicability and cost effectiveness of utilizing a 1 MWe array for earth orbital applications.
An intense technology development program has been underway for several years. The emphasis has been on solving problems that relate directly toward utilization of large solar arrays. These have included light weight structures, improved power distribution and cost reduction techniques. This paper discusses the various approaches being taken by both government and industry to resolve these problems.
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