content long 20-June-2013 08:56:19

Service Module

Electric Power

The spacecraft is equipped with a 12.8 m² high-efficiency triple-junction Gallium-Arsenide cell solar array, of which 7.3 m² is in the form of a fixed solar array and 5.5 m² is covered by 6 panels mechanically linked to deployable sunshield assembly.

For the launch, the deployable sunshield is folded against the payload module. After separation from the launch vehicle it is deployed around the fixed solar array, in the same plane. During the Launch and Early Operations Phase (LEOP), power is supplied by a 60 Ah mass-efficient Lithium-ion battery.

Optimum power supply during all phases of the mission is ensured by a power control and distribution unit with maximum power point tracking.

Last Update: 21 August 2012

For further information please contact: SciTech.editorial@esa.int

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