500 Watt Solar AMTEC Power System for Small Spacecraft

The small spacecraft power system proposed in this program provides significant advantages over state-of-the-art systems including: (1) use of a high efficiency (25%-35%) AMTEC, static power conversion system, (2) reduced planform area, and vulnerability, (3) mass efficient phase change material for thermal energy storage during solar eclipse periods, (4) high reliability with no vibration, (5) significant savings in power systems mass, and cost, (6) a conversion technology that is compatible with many sources (solar, radioisotope, combustion, reactor, etc.), and (7) a conversion technology whose efficiency is essentially independent of size/capacity for a given operating regime meaning smaller, less expensive modules can be developed and used in larger systems. The overall objective of Phase I is to develop a design for a working prototype of an innovative, low cost, reliable, low mass, long life 500 watt solar power system for small spacecraft. Phase I will also determine the magnitude of the improved performance AMTEC offers small spacecraft space power systems. The proposed work will define in detail a 500 We, solar AMTEC system capable of reducing the size and cost of space power systems with acceptable risk and provide the systems work required for space and terrestrial applications. Project tasks include: (1) spacecraft requirements, (2) performance evaluation, (3) system selection, (4) conceptual design of the 500 We solar power systems based upon the requirements. The prototype system will be fabricated and tested in the Phase II effort if the results of Phase I are promising.