Studies have shown that solar electric propulsion has a wide range of mission applications and offers attractive payload capability compared to all-chemical systems. A key element of solar electric propulsion is the solar array. Multikilowatt solar arrays have been under development for several years, during which time a number of component developments have been undertaken for the purpose of reducing mass and proving feasibility. This paper summarizes the technical accomplishments that demonstrate the feasibility and readiness of large-area, lowmass solar arrays for electric propulsion missions.
Solar array technology developments and designs for electric propulsion application
Entwicklungsstand und Ausfuehrung von Sonnenbatterien fuer den solarelektrischen Antrieb von Raumfahrzeugen
1981
9 Seiten, 2 Bilder, 2 Tabellen
Conference paper
English