Space Solar Array Reliability: A Study and Recommendations
- Paper number
IAC-07-C3.2.01
- Author
Dr. Henry Brandhorst, Auburn University, United States
- Coauthor
Mrs. Julie Rodiek, Auburn University, United States
- Year
2007
- Abstract
Providing reliable power over the anticipated mission life is critical to all satellites; therefore solar arrays are one of the most vital links to satellite mission success. Furthermore, solar arrays are exposed to the harshest environment of virtually any satellite component. Unfortunately, over the last ten years Airclaims has documented 113 satellite solar array anomalies, 10 of which resulted in total satellite failure. Thus it is clear that solar array reliability a serious, industry-wide issue. These anomalies account for 38
Solar array anomalies in the past ten years have been taken from the Ascend SpaceTrak database and analyzed. The number of satellite failures in GEO is significantly greater than any other orbit. Factors affecting satellite reliability including type of anomaly, what manufacturers are involved in these anomalies, the average time after launch that an anomaly will occur, and how many of these anomalies prove fatal and if the reliability of satellites is improving. These data will be presented and discussed.
Solar array reliability can be improved through careful ground testing. Standardization of testing procedures presented in the emerging AIAA standards address this issue. They will be discussed as well as various solar array power system issues with a focus on solar array reliability. Suggestions for next steps that could be taken by the satellite industry to improve the reliability of the solar arrays will be included. One possibility is creation of an international committee on satellite failures through an underwriters’ agency. A common database on orbital failures can also become an integral part of overcoming such failures. Finally, a certified module and array testing facility that would certify in-space reliability may be one answer to increasing the reliability of solar arrays. Better designs that will improve solar arrays and eliminate these failures will also be discussed. Solar array reliability is an issue that must be addressed to both reduce costs and ensure continued viability of the commercial and government assets on orbit.
- Abstract document
- Manuscript document
IAC-07-C3.2.01.pdf (🔒 authorized access only).
To get the manuscript, please contact IAF Secretariat.