The Ground Testing of a 2kWe Solar Dynamic Space Power System

Over the past 25 years Space Solar Dynamic component development has advanced to the point where it is considered a leading candidate power source technology for the evolutionary phases of the Space Station Freedom (SSF) program. Selection of SD power was based on studies and analyses which indicated significant savings in life cycle costs, launch mass and EVA requirements were possible when the system is compared to more conventional photovoltaic/battery power systems. However, like any new or untested system proposed for space applications a number of issues have been raised concerning performance of the components when integrated into a system in a vacuum environment. Issues associated with micro-gravity operation such as the behavior of the thermal energy storage materials are being addressed in other programs. A ground test of a 2 kWe solar dynamic system is being planned by the NASA Office of Aeronautics and Space Technology to address the integration issues. The test will be scalable up to 25 kWe, will be flight configured and will incorporate relevant features of the SSF Solar Dynamic Power Module design.