Development of a Fold-out Rigid Solar Array for Three Axis-Stabilized Geosynchronous Satellites

摘要

This array was developed for point-to-point spacecraft communication purposes. The various components (panel, yoke, and wings), structures and special materials used are described together with the tilting and stowing mechanisms. The panel cell network is made up of four identical interchangeable subpanels. The masses of the different components are itemized. The functional behavior of the equipment is presented together with the results of the test program carried out. The end of life performance of the array is approximately 25 W/kg (with currently mass produced solar cells).