Hybrid AC/DC Power Distribution Solution for Future Space Applications

As NASA readies itself for new space exploration initiatives starting with a human return to the Moon by the year 2020 eventually leading to human exploration of Mars, the requirements for a safe and reliable power system will become important issues. A preliminary study of a proposed hybrid AC/DC distribution system with a power electronic interface is investigated. A static synchronous compensator (STATCOM) is considered as the power electronic interface between the AC and the DC portions of the hybrid AC/DC distribution system. The system is modeled in EMTDC/PSCAD and tested for certain operating conditions and contingencies. High reliability and maintenance-free operation is crucial for continuity of supply on spacecraft distribution systems. Source redundancy is introduced to increase the reliability of the system. Some results pertaining to the distribution system are also presented.