New Directions for Space Solar Power
- Paper number
IAC-06-C3.1.03
- Author
Mr. John C. Mankins, ARTEMIS Innovation Management Solutions, LLC, United States
- Year
2006
- Abstract
Several of the central issues associated with the eventual realization of the vision of solar power from space for terrestrial markets revolve around the expected costs associated with the assembly, inspection, maintenance and repair of future solar power satellite (SPS) stations. In past studies (for example, NASA's “Fresh Look Study", c. 1995-1997) efforts were made to reduce both the scale and the mass of large systems-level interfaces (e.g., the power management and distribution (PMAD) system) and on-orbit fixed infrastructures through the use of modular systems strategies. These efforts have had mixed success (as reflected in the projected on-orbit mass of various systems concepts. However, the author remains convinced of the importance of modular strategies for exceptionally large space systems in eventually realizing the vision of power from space. This paper will introduce some of the key issues associated with cost-competitive space solar power in terrestrial markets. It will examine some of the relevant SPS concepts and will assess the pros and cons of each in terms of space assembly, maintenance and servicing (SAMS) requirements. The paper will also discuss at a high-level some relevant concepts and technologies that may play a role in the eventual, successful resolution of these challenges. The paper concludes with a new road map for space solar power.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-06-C3.1.03.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.