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Optimal power generation and storage technology suites must be selected based on the overall spacecraft mission and hardware design to insure a minimum system cost. Several new technologies in solar generation (high efficiency multi-junction GaAs-based cells, concentrator arrays, thin film cells, etc.) offer increased performance and/or reduced system-level cost. The savings at the array level often benefit the overall system performance in terms of drag, mass, inertia, and propellant loading. In addition, battery technologies often impact the spacecraft thermal control system and overall dry mass. This paper discusses the design algorithms implemented and executed at The Aerospace Corporation to determine optimal power subsystem suites as a function of spacecraft design and total system cost.

This paper presents a summary of the design, development, and ground verification of the BETSU (Brilliant Eyes Thermal Storage Unit) experiment. The BETSU utilizes 2-methyl pentane as a 120 K PCM (Phase Change Material) and will be flown on board the Shuttle in early 1994. There has been very limited experience with the space flight of cryogenic phase change materials. Space applications for a cryogenic TSU include the storage of energy for the cooling of temperature sensitive sensor components such as focal planes, optics, mirrors, and telescopes. Based on ground test data, trade studies were performed which show the significant weight and cost benefits of the BETSU technology.