Description
The objective of the activity is to develop and test coupons to pave the way for high-power, high-voltage solar arrays (e.g., 300 Vplus) feeding directly electric propulsion systems. Targeted Improvements:- Increased solar array output voltage from 100V to at least 300V for high power solar arrays.- Enabling direct feed of solar array power to electrical propulsion systems. Description: Inorder to feed power generated by solar arrays directly into electrical propulsion systems, it is necessary to operate the solar arrays at higher voltages (bus voltages around 300 V to 350 V, solar array peak voltages up to 1,000 V at low temperatures). Another advantage of operating solar arrays at higher voltages is a reduction in the weight of the wiring. High power, high voltage solar array design concepts have been studied but challenges remain to select parts and materials for long term use under high voltage conditions.This activity will develop a concept for solar arrays operated at high voltages and tests will be carried out at coupon level. Suitable parts and materials will be identified and evaluated and at least two different solar array assemblies will be developed, built and tested. Lessons learned, material properties and confirmed margins will be inputs for the issue of the ECSS-E-HB-20-08A handbook on Solar Panel Photovoltaic Assembly, Substrate and Components. Footnote: On Delegation Request activities will only be initiated on the explicit request of at least one National Delegation.