Tag: Power Systems
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ispace-US and Zeno Power Partner for Lunar Night Survival with Nuclear-Powered Tech by 2027
At the 40th Space Symposium, ispace technologies U.S., a leading American lunar exploration company, and Zeno Power Systems, a pioneer in nuclear power for space applications, announced a strategic agreement to jointly develop technologies that enable lunar missions to survive the harsh lunar night. The companies are targeting a demonstration mission as early as 2027…
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Star Catcher Successfully Demonstrates Space Power Beaming Technology
Star Catcher, the pioneer in space-to-space power beaming, has successfully completed the first-ever demonstration of its space-based power beaming technology, marking a major step toward deploying an in-space energy grid that will eliminate power constraints for satellites. Conducted at EverBank Stadium, home of the Jacksonville Jaguars, this end-to-end ground demonstration validates the core technology that…
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constellr Releases First High-Resolution Thermal Image of Tokyo from SkyBee-1 Satellite
constellr, a European leader in Earth Observation (EO), has released its ‘first light’ image from HiVE’s SkyBee-1 satellite, marking a milestone in high-precision thermal monitoring. Captured just weeks after the satellite’s launch, the image provides an unprecedented, high-resolution thermal map of Tokyo at night, demonstrating building-level temperature detail. SkyBee-1 carries a custom-developed thermal long-wave infrared…
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Star Catcher Partners with Space Florida for Space Energy Grid Development
Star Catcher Industries, the leader in space-to-space power beaming, announced a strategic partnership with Space Florida, the state’s independent aerospace finance and development authority, to advance the world’s first space energy grid. As part of this partnership, Star Catcher will conduct a large-scale demonstration later this summer of its groundbreaking power beaming technology at Space…
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What are the Different Types of Solar Panels used in Space?
Crystalline Silicon Panels Crystalline Silicon Panels were first used in 1958 for the VANGUARD-1 satellite. Panels made from silicon have a much lower efficiency i.e 15-20% electricity generated because silicon panels can only absorb visible sunlight and not infrared & UV rays. Additionally, silicon panels are more susceptible to degradation over time due to the…
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What are Cryocoolers?
Cryocoolers are refrigerators that are designed to reach cryogenic temperatures (-130 ). They are designed in tabletop sizes and have an input power of less than 20 kW. A cryogenic refrigerator has four major components: Compressor Heat exchanger Expansion device Evaporator In the first stage, the gas gets compressed and goes to the heat exchanger.…
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Why are Solar Panels used in Satellites & Spacecrafts?
Spacecrafts or satellites that orbit around the earth, near the sun are powered by solar energy. Solar panels are fitted on these satellites or spacecraft and are economical and conserve space and energy. That’s why they are preferred over batteries for operation. Space-based solar panels can generate up to 2000 gigawatts of power constantly because…
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What are Pulse Tube Cryocoolers?
Pulse tube cryocoolers are refrigeration devices that achieve cryogenic temperatures (below 123 K) without moving parts in the cold region, making them reliable and low-maintenance solutions for various applications in science and industry. They are particularly useful in fields such as aerospace, medical imaging, and superconducting technologies. Pulse tube cryocoolers operate on the principle of…
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What is a Power Processing Unit (PPU) for Thrusters?
A Power Processing Unit (PPU) for thrusters is a critical component in spacecraft propulsion systems. It serves the crucial function of converting the spacecraft’s primary electrical power—typically generated by solar panels or onboard batteries—into the specific forms and levels required to operate the thrusters effectively. This conversion is crucial for maintaining the required thrust levels,…
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What are Stirling Cryocoolers?
Stirling cryocoolers are advanced refrigeration systems designed to achieve cryogenic temperatures, typically below 120 Kelvin (-153.15°C). They operate based on the Stirling cycle, which involves cyclic compression and expansion of a working gas (usually helium) to produce cooling. These cryocoolers are known for their high efficiency, reliability, and ability to achieve very low temperatures, making…