Developing a Distributed Power and Grounding Architecture for PnPSat

The Air Force Research Laboratories in Albuquerque, New Mexico have over the past several years been coordinating the development of innovative spacecraft architectures and integration methodologies for rapid configuration, integration, test and launch of satellites for tactical missions. As part of that effort, AFRL has sponsored the design and development of a distributed "Plug and Play" power subsystem architecture that is responsive to the need for rapid configuration and integration, supporting changeouts and upgrades to power elements "at the depot," while still delivering performance compatible with Operationally Responsive Space mission requirements. This paper presents the key design highlights and salient features of a Plug and Play power subsystem architecture developed by Design_Net Engineering for the PnPSat Program.