A deployment fixture for the simulated zero- gravity testing of a large-area solar array
Design and development of deployment fixture for simulated zero gravity testing of large area solar array
James A Lackey↗
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Electronic solar array simulator Final report, 30 Jun. 1969 - 2 Nov. 1970
Design engineering of 20 kilowatt solar array electronic simulator
Hatten, R. V.↗
Integration of solar array and power conditioning electronics
Power conditioning electronics for integrally regulated and controlled high voltage solar array spacecraft power system, increasing reliability and reducing weight
Springgate, W. F.↗
LSSA (low-cost Silicon Solar Array) project
Work performed in the field of photovoltaic research by the low cost silicon solar array project of jet propulsion laboratory was described. Background technical information was also furnished.
Mallock, I.↗
Solar Array Experiment (SAE) Flight Experience
The space flight testing of a large, flat, flexible panel solar array is examined. The experiment objectives are: to demonstrate the functional operational of the wind deployment and packaging system; Electrical performance; Thermal performance; and dynamic performance. A complete description of the experiment and the flight results are given.
Hill, H. C.↗
Solar array flight experiment
This is a closed form solution for the longitudinal oscillation of the Solar Array Flight Experiment (SAFE) blanket for all phases of deployment. The frequency response shows that the blanket frequency increases shortly before full deployment. That fact causes a coupling between the mast and the blanket frequency but, because of the relatively high speed of deployment, a buildup of resonance is unlikely.
Slaby, J.↗
Evaluation of solar array flight experiment response during flight for extension/retraction phase
This post flight evaluation of the Solar Array Flight Experiment's (SAFE) deployment dynamics explains the encountered resonances.
Slaby, J.↗
Atomic oxygen undercutting of defects on SiO2 protected polyimide solar array blankets
Low Earth Orbital (LEO) atomic oxygen can oxidize SiO2-protected polyimide kapton solar array blanket material which is not totally protected as a result of pinholes or scratches in the SiO2 coatings. The probability of atomic oxygen reaction upon initial impact is low, thus inviting oxidation by secondary impacts. The secondary impacts can produce atomic oxygen undercutting which may lead to coating mechanical failure and ever increasing mass loss rates of kapton. Comparison of undercutting effects in isotropic plasma asher and directed beam tests are reported. These experimental results are compared with computational undercutting profiles based on Monte Carlo methods and their implication on LEO performance of protected polymers.
Banks, Bruce A.↗
A Flight Prediction for Performance of the SWAS Solar Array Deployment Mechanism
The focus of this paper is a comparison of ground-based solar array deployment tests with the on-orbit deployment. The discussion includes a summary of the mechanisms involved and the correlation of a dynamics model with ground based test results. Some of the unique characteristics of the mechanisms are explained through the analysis of force and angle data acquired from the test deployments. The correlated dynamics model is then used to predict the performance of the system in its flight application.
Seniderman, Gary↗
A Flight Prediction for Performance of the SWAS Solar Array Deployment Mechanism
The focus of this paper is a comparison of ground-based solar array deployment tests with the on-orbit deployment. The discussion includes a summary of the mechanisms involved and the correlation of a dynamics model with ground based test results. Some of the unique characteristics of the mechanisms are explained through the analysis of force and angle data acquired from the test deployments. The correlated dynamics model is then used to predict the performance of the system in its flight application.
Sneiderman, Gary↗
A Flight Prediction for Performance of the SWAS Solar Array Deployment Mechanism
The focus of this paper is a comparison of ground-based solar array deployment tests with the on-orbit deployment. The discussion includes a summary of the mechanisms involved and the correlation of a dynamics model with ground based test results. Some of the unique characteristics of the mechanisms are explained through the analysis of force and angle data acquired from the test deployments. The correlated dynamics model is then used to predict the performance of the system in its flight application.
Sneiderman, Gary↗
Phase 1 of the automated array assembly task of the low cost silicon solar array project
The results of a study of process variables and solar cell variables are presented. Interactions between variables and their effects upon control ranges of the variables are identified. The results of a cost analysis for manufacturing solar cells are discussed. The cost analysis includes a sensitivity analysis of a number of cost factors.
Pryor, R. A.↗
Advancements of the Lightweight Integrated Solar Array and Transceiver (LISA-T) Small Spacecraft System
This paper describes recent advancements of the Lightweight Integrated Solar Array and Transceiver (LISA-T) currently being developed at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. The LISA-T array comprises a launch stowed, orbit deployed structure on which thin-film photovoltaic (PV) and antenna devices are embedded. The system provides significant electrical power generation at low weights, high stowage efficiency, and without the need for solar tracking. Leveraging high-volume terrestrial-market PVs also gives the potential for lower array costs. LISA-T is addressing the power starvation epidemic currently seen by many small-scale satellites while also enabling the application of deployable antenna arrays. Herein, an overview of the system and its applications are presented alongside sub-system development progress and environmental testing plans/initial results.
Russell, Tiffany↗
Advancements of the Lightweight Integrated Solar Array and Transceiver (LISA-T) Small Spacecraft System
This paper describes recent advancements of the Lightweight Integrated Solar Array and Transceiver (LISA-T) currently being developed at NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center. The LISA-T array comprises a launch stowed, orbit deployed structure on which thin-film photovoltaic (PV) and antenna devices are embedded. The system provides significant electrical power generation at low weights, high stowage efficiency, and without the need for solar tracking. Leveraging high-volume terrestrial-market PVs also gives the potential for lower array costs. LISA-T is addressing the power starvation epidemic currently seen by many small-scale satellites while also enabling the application of deployable antenna arrays. Herein, an overview of the system and its applications are presented alongside sub-system development progress and environmental testing plans.
Lockett, Tiffany Russell↗
Estimating the Performance of a Concentrating Solar Array
Comprehensive mathematical-analysis technique developed for array of solar-photovoltaic panels equipped with truncated-pyramid concentrators. Hollow pyramidal concentrator reflects Sunlight onto panel of photovoltaic cells. Comprehensive optical, thermal, and electrical analysis performed on array of units. Technique applicable, with modifications, to analysis and design of other multiple-cell reflecting photovoltaic systems.
French, E. P.↗
Study of multi-kW solar arrays for Earth orbit application
Low cost low Earth orbit (LOW) and geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO) Solar Array concepts in the 300 to 1000 kW range which could be reduced to hardware in the mid 1980's, are identified. Size scaling factors and longer life demands are recognized as the prime drivers for the designs if low life cycle costs for energy are to be achieved. Technology is identified which requires further development in order to assure component readiness and availability. Use of the low concentration ratio (CR) concentrator, which uses gallium arsenide solar cells for both LEO and GEO applications, is recommended.
Source record↗
Performance measurement of low concentration ratio solar array for space application
The measured performance of a silicon and a gallium arsenide low concentration ratio solar array (LCRSA) element is presented. The element characteristics measured in natural sunlight are off pointing performance and response to mechanical distortions. Laboratory measurements of individual silicon and gallium-arsenide solar cell assemblies are also made. The characteristics measured in the laboratory involved responses to temperature and intensity variations as well as to the application of reverse bias potentials. The element design details covered include the materials, the solar cells, and the rationale for selecting these specific characteristics. The measured performance characteristics are contrasted with the predicted values for both laboratory testing and high altitude natural sunlight testing. Excellent agreement between analytical predictions and measured performance is observed.
Mills, M. W.↗
Phase 1 of the automated array assembly task of the low cost silicon solar array project
The state of technology readiness for the automated production of solar cells and modules is reviewed. Individual process steps and process sequences for making solar cells and modules were evaluated both technically and economically. High efficiency with a suggested cell goal of 15% was stressed. It is concluded that the technology exists to manufacture solar cells which will meet program goals.
Coleman, M. G.↗