NASA Logo

NTRS

NTRS - NASA Technical Reports Server

Back to Results
Li-ion rechargeable batteries on Mars Exploration RoversLithium-ion batteries have contributed significantly to the success of NASA's Mars Rovers, Spirit and Opportunity that have been exploring the surface of Mars for the last two years and performing astounding geological studies to answer the ever-puzzling questions of life beyond Earth and the origin of our planets. Combined with the triple-junction solar cells, the lithium-ion batteries have been powering the robotic rovers, and assist in keeping the rover electronics warm, and in supporting nighttime experimentation and communications. The use of Li-ion batteries has resulted in significant benefits in several categories, such as mass, volume, energy efficiency, self discharge, and above all low temperature performance. Designed initially for the primary mission needs of 300 cycles over 90 days of surface operation, the batteries have been performing admirably, over the last two years. After about 670 days of exploration and at least as many cycles, there is little change in the end-of discharge (EOD) voltages or capacities of these batteries, as estimated from the in-flight data and corroborated by ground testing. Aided by such impressive durability from the Li-ion batteries, both from cycling and calendar life stand point, these rovers are poised to extend their exploration well beyond two years. In this paper, we will describe the performance characteristics of these batteries during launch, cruise phase and on the surface of Mars thus far.
Document ID
20060043590
Acquisition Source
Jet Propulsion Laboratory
Document Type
Conference Paper
External Source(s)
Authors
Bugga, Ratnakumar
Smart, M.
Whitacanack, L.
Ewell, R.
Surampudi, S.
Date Acquired
August 23, 2013
Publication Date
January 12, 2006
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Science And Exploration
Meeting Information
Meeting: Recent Advances in Engineering Mechanics, California State University
Location: Fullerton, CA
Country: United States
Start Date: January 12, 2006
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
litium ion batteries
Mars Rovers

Available Downloads

There are no available downloads for this record.
No Preview Available