Multi-kilowatt solar power system concept

Conference · Wed Aug 01 04:00:00 UTC 1984 · Proc., Intersoc. Energy Convers. Eng. Conf.; (United States)

OSTI ID:5819906

Kirpich, A; Chung, A

As part of a feasibility study for large satellite communications, the conceptual design of a multi-kilowatt solar power system has been completed. The concept is based on using two flat-pack SEP solar arrays having a beginning-of-life output of 25 KW. The bulk of this power is supplied to the communication payload at 200 VDC. Further processing to various user voltage levels is performed within the communications subsystem. A limited amount of energy storage is used to maintain the payload during eclipse periods. The system has been designed for a geosynchronous orbit. Key technical issues of this concept are the use of a high distribution voltage (200 VDC) and the effects of electro-static discharge (ESD) associated with the large solar array area. Assessments of these issues are presented together with approaches for reducing deleterious effects to acceptable levels. Housekeeping loads, estimated at 1 KW, are supported by a small segment of the solar array along with a complement of batteries for operation through eclipse periods. This power is provided at 28 VDC. A unique feature of the design is the manner in which the solar array is mounted to the spacecraft. Instead of articulating the solar array with respect to the main spacecraft body, as implemented in many geosynchronous spacecraft, the solar array is fixed to the main body. Both the solar array and main body are then sun oriented. Key advantages of this approach are: elimination of high power slip rings; simple thermal control because sun-pointing results in constant thermal conditions; straightforward structural and mechanical integration resulting largely from elimination of view factor considerations associated with articulated solar arrays.

• Research Organization: Space Division, General Electric Company, Valley Forge, PA
• OSTI ID: 5819906
• Report Number(s): CONF-840804-
• Conference Information: Journal Name: Proc., Intersoc. Energy Convers. Eng. Conf.; (United States) Journal Volume: 1
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140600* -- Solar Energy-- Photovoltaic Power Systems
COMMUNICATIONS
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEMS
ENERGY SYSTEMS
EQUIPMENT
FEASIBILITY STUDIES
PERFORMANCE
PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SUPPLIES
POWER SUPPLIES
SATELLITES
SOLAR CELL ARRAYS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SPACECRAFT POWER SUPPLIES