Power Systems for Production, Construction Life Support, and Operations in Space

by Ronald J. Sovie, NASA Lewis Research Cent, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Engineering, Construction, and Operations in Space

Abstract:

As one looks forward to mankind's future in space, it becomes obvious that unprecedented amounts of power will be required for the exploration, colonization, and exploitation of space. Power levels required for various applications vary from a few kilowatts (kWe) to 4 or 5 megawatts (MW_e) electric. Significant advancements must be made over the present state of space power technology in order to enable or significantly enhance these missions. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the advanced power system technologies being pursued by NASA to fulfill these future needs. Technologies discussed will include photovoltaic, solar dynamic, and nuclear power systems.

Subject Headings: Solar power | Electric power | Power supply | Space exploration | Power plants | Nuclear power | Space life support systems

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