Title :
Future trends in space photovoltaics
Author :
Gledhill, Kristen ; Marvin, Dean
Author_Institution :
Space Power & Thermal Manage. Div., US Air Force Phillips Lab., Albuquerque, NM, USA
Abstract :
The Air Force, NASA, NRL and the commercial sector are all using small spacecraft to a greater extent in order to provide more cost-effective access to space. This paper discusses the generic photovoltaic technologies which are being studied and/or developed to support these smaller spacecraft, and identifies several specific examples. The unique requirements of these mission types include lower power arrays, arrays with lower mass and stowed volume which will be more compatible with small launch vehicles, and power systems with lower fabrication costs.<>
Keywords :
economics; photovoltaic power systems; space vehicle power plants; Air Force; NASA; NRL; cost-effectiveness; mass reduction; small launch vehicles; solar array technology; space photovoltaics; stowed volume; Costs; Fabrication; Laboratories; NASA; Photovoltaic cells; Satellites; Space missions; Space technology; Space vehicles; Thermal force;
Journal_Title :
Aerospace and Electronic Systems Magazine, IEEE
