Design of a Solar Array to Meet the Standard Bus Specification for Operation Responsive Space

tandardized satellite platforms, payloads, and components are all important parts of the United States Department of Defense’s initiative to develop an Operationally Responsive Space (ORS). Recognizing the need for reliable power sources on future ORS satellites, TacSat-4 seeks to qualify a Standard Bus Array, which will meet the potential power requirements of future missions, yet be capable of accommodating the quick lead times, high reliability, low mass, and aggressive price targets associated with ORS. To meet these needs, Composite Technology Development (CTD), with the support of DR Technologies, has developed a deployable solar array design with a minimal overall part count and complexity, and a low overall cost. A key to achieving a low overall cost is the use of TEMBO Elastic Memory Composite Hinges that are substantially simpler and lighter than traditional mechanical hinge/actuators, and eliminate the need for separate drive, damping, and locking mechanisms. The present paper will provide an overview of this alternative design for the Standard Bus Array, including electrical and mechanical interfaces with a standardized ORS bus, stowed system envelope, launch-retention system, and a description of the deployment concept of operations for the array. S