NirViaje
commented
5 years ago Caltech Space Solar Power Project
Our concept is based on the modular assembly of ultralight, foldable, 2D integrated elements. Integration of solar power and RF conversion in one element avoids a power distribution network throughout the structure, further reducing weight and complexity. This concept enables scalability and mitigates local element failure impact on other parts of the system.
The second iteration functional prototype is demonstrated at Caltech. This prototype is 33% lighter than the first version, achieving areal density of less than 1 kg/m2. It integrates photovoltaics and power transfer circuitry and incorporates beam steering.
The challenging environment of space has driven the development of the highest efficiency and most reliable solar cell technologies available today. We seek to advance the state of the art with respect to specific power (power output per mass) of future space solar technologies by leveraging emerging materials, novel photonic structures, and advanced fabrication methods. Specific areas of research include thermal design of solar collectors, radiation tolerance, multijunction III-V solar cells, perovskites, and 2D materials.
- PHOTOVOLTAICS
Our research on ultralight spacecraft structures integrates ultrathin composite materials and polymer films with advanced packaging techniques, often inspired by origami. We develop theoretical and computational analyses and build laboratory-scale prototypes of our structures to better understand their behavior and enable their application in large spacecraft.
- ULTRALIGHT STRUCTURES
We focus on various strategies and techniques for ultralight-weight mid- and long-range wireless power transfer, including using flexible phased arrays systems at various frequencies that can convert, transfer, and recover energy effectively and safely to locations in need of power. We perform advanced research on various aspects of wireless power transfer systems, such as collapsible electromagnetically active structures, timing control and synchronization, RF, mm-wave, and optical integrated circuits, and novel array architectures.
- WIRELESS POWER TRANSFER
SPS
QianLab, CAST