Structurally Embedded Power Source for Space Applications

The objective of this Phase I program is to design and develop extremely versatile power source technologies for future satellites for missile defense applications that is modular, flexible, energy dense, powerful and lightweight, has a high cycle life andcost-effective. Phase I will demonstrate the feasibility of a structurally embedded intelligent power unit consisting of a photovoltaic charging system laminated with a series of high energy density thin film power sources, flexible electronics and thermalmanagement devices to form a flexible structural panel that may be adaptable to form the actual structural panels of the satellite, cutting major construction costs, maximizing space power and allowing more useable space for additional firepower. Thesatellite's entire structural housing would be its own self-generating power source. The program will determine processing and lamination of thin film photovoltaic and power source components, performance limits with respect to temperature cycling,designing simple circuitries for charging and selecting the most efficient and reliable components. Such material could also do the same for mobile terrestrial solar power in military and civil equipment. Phase II will address scale-up and design andfabrication of a larger working prototype.Successful demonstration of such a module and eventual use in satellites would positively impact defense applications and spur the commercial development for use in automobiles, homes, office buildings, remotelocations and commercial satellites. The technology may also find use in the battlefield for powering the military equipment either on the ground or carried by the soldier or for general reconnaissance aircrafts and stealth bombers. Rolled-up modularsheets of the power source could be made available for a number of applications requiring power either for civilian use or military use in remote areas of the world where sunlight is readily available.