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Objectives
This project studied the possibility of improvement of the classical regulated bus by considering the use of a classical regulated topology whose voltage is regulated to maximum power point of the solar array. The project has consisted of two phases: the first one considered whether the basic idea improves the classical regulated bus by using ad hoc developed models; the second one, after positive conclusions of the first, tested the actual behaviour of a low power mock-up of the proposed idea.
The objective was to perform an end-to-end study from the power system to the payload, using the latest ideas and technologies, in order to compare a Maximum Power Point (MPP) and classic fully-regulated maximum current Busses for future GEO Telecommunications spacecraft. The optimization of the end-to-end system shall be taken as meaning the optimisation of the overall solar array power processing and power distribution system up to the TWTAs such as to minimise the cost per TWTA channel per year.
Challenges
The Phase I of the study consisted of a search and high level comparison of the different candidates to implement an optimum space power system for GEO telecommunication applications including topologies with MPP and without MPP operation and battery above and below the power bus.
The objective of Phase II of the project was:
- To define the specifications of a mock up system;
- To study the feasibility of the identified design for space operations;
- To implement a system test bed that will provide significant data to ensure that the S3MPPR system performs in a reliable manner.
Plan
Phase 1 concerns the study of an optimised Telecommunications end-to-end system, from Solar Array to Payload. Phase 2 concerns the Design, Building and Testing of a scaled-down model of the proposed system.
Current Status
The study has been completed.
