Redeployable Solar Array Structure for Lunar Base Infrastructure

Atomic-6 proposes to develop a novel redeployable structure and deployment mechanism to enable relocatable 50-kW-class lightweight solar arrays near the lunar south pole for powering second-generation lunar base infrastructure. Atomic-6 has developed a proprietary composite manufacturing process that results in higher fiber to resin ratios and interlaminar shear strength than most pre-preg composites. The product of the Atomic-6 process is a composite part with higher specific strength and stiffness than most other composite manufacturing technologies. Atomic-6 applies our unique process to three space products that together comprise a unique and innovative solar array architecture proposed as a solution to NASA’s H5.01 solicitation: Space Mast™, Space Hinge™, and Solar Backsheet™. During Phase I, Atomic-6 plans to perform design and analysis to scale our solar array structure architecture to meet NASA’s objectives defined in H5.01. The structure includes a twin mast, deployed from the yoke at the root of the array. Directionally stiffened solar blankets are connected to each other and the array frame by a shape memory, directionally stiffened hinge that runs along the full width of the blanket. The blanket is floated on top of the structure which self-tensions during deployment. Our architecture leverages the strengths of Z-fold panel solar blankets with reliable and redeployable roll out masts. This approach provides the benefits of both approaches and none of the weaknesses. Moreover, our key technologies have been produced at subscale and a pathway is defined to scale to the sizes NASA needs. Atomic-6 plans to implement a redeployer that rolls and unrolls Space Mast™ to deploy, retract, and redeploy the array structure. The architecture is a twin mast system that utilizes to coordinated redeployers to unwind and rewind the twin Space Mast™. Atomic-6 plans to mount the array on a base similar in design to the proven of the SpaceX Starlink user terminal.