Power Up: Roll Out Solar Arrays Boost Space Station Power Supply
In 2017, a technology demonstration conducted aboard the space station tested the effectiveness of the arrays . The lightweight, compact design launches as a cylinder and unfurls like a yoga mat after installation. This advanced design reduces mass and volume at launch and uses an autonomous, self-deploying system that minimizes risks during rollout.
The technology is also scalable to meet mission requirements. The IROSAs are about half the size of the station’s legacy arrays. Despite being smaller, the arrays are capable of producing about 28 kilowatts of additional power.
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