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SEP solar array Shuttle flight experimentAn experiment to verify the operational performance of a full-scale Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP) solar array is described. Scheduled to fly on the Shuttle in 1983, the array will be deployed from the bay for ten orbits, with dynamic excitation to test the structural integrity being furnished by the Orbiter verniers; thermal, electrical, and sun orientation characteristics will be monitored, in addition to safety, reliability, and cost effective performance. The blanket, with aluminum and glass as solar cell mass simulators, is 4 by 32 m, with panels (each 0.38 by 4 m) hinged together; two live Si cell panels will be included. The panels are bonded to stiffened graphite-epoxy ribs and are storable in a box in the bay. The wing support structure is detailed, noting the option of releasing the wing into space by use of the Remote Manipulator System if the wing cannot be refolded. Procedures and equipment for monitoring the array behavior are outlined, and comprise both analog data and TV recording for later playback and analysis. The array wing experiment will also aid in developing measurement techniques for large structure dynamics in space.
Document ID
19820028222
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Elms, R. V., Jr.
(Lockheed Missiles and Space Co., Inc. Sunnyvale, CA, United States)
Young, L. E.
(Lockheed Missiles and Space Co. Sunnyvale, CA, United States)
Hill, H. C.
(NASA Marshall Space Flight Center Huntsville, AL, United States)
Date Acquired
August 10, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1981
Subject Category
Spacecraft Propulsion And Power
Meeting Information
Meeting: In: Intersociety Energy Conversion Engineering Conference
Location: Atlanta, GA
Start Date: August 9, 1981
End Date: August 14, 1981
Accession Number
82A11757
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAS8-31352
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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