LARGE SOLAR ARRAY DEVELOPMENT IN U. K

Abstract

Aspects of large solar array technology are reviewed, with particular reference to the development of an experimental 560 W deployable array, which has some novel features. The array consists of very thin silicon solar cells mounted on Kapton polyimide film. It is stowed by folding the Kapton concertina fashion into rectangular compartments and deployed by pneumatically-actuated telescopic masts. Deployment is initiated by duplicated pyrotechnic actuators and takes about two minutes to complete. The estimated all-up weight of the 78 sq ft array, including stowage compartments, cushioning and deployment mechanism is 25.2 lb, giving a power-weight ratio of 22.3 W/lb at 55C. The main problem areas are discussed in some detail, with an indication of the progress made to date.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Jan 01, 1969
Accession Number
AD0691587

Entities

People

  • F. C. Treble

Organizations

  • Royal Aircraft Establishment

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Space

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Artificial Satellites
  • Attitude Control Systems
  • Circuit Boards
  • Control Systems
  • Corpuscular Radiation
  • Films
  • Ion Engines
  • Joints
  • Orbits
  • Printed Circuits
  • Radiation
  • Release Mechanisms
  • Solar Cells
  • Solar Panels
  • Soldered Joints
  • Space Sciences
  • Spacecraft

Readers

  • Electrical Engineering
  • Polymer Science and Engineering.
  • Theoretical Analysis.

Technology Areas

  • Space
  • Space - Satellites