Power modules and projected power systems evolution

Photovoltaic, solar thermal, and nuclear power systems are considered to supply future earth orbital electrical power requirements. A growth scenario from a 25-kW Power Module in the early Shuttle era to the 5- to 10-GW Satellite Power System in the year 2000 is presented. Photovoltaic systems are presently baselined in this evolution. The Photovoltaic Power System and subsystem growth projections, consistent with this scenario, were developed and are summarized.