A Control System for Space Solar Power

This paper presents an algorithm for the implementation of a control system that accepts power requests and makes distribution assignments to maximize the performance of the overall space solar power (SSP) system and meet service level agreements (SLAs). This complex process involves projecting service-customer demand into the future, projecting power availability on each servicing spacecraft and implementing corrective measures should actual craft performance not meet with planning expectations. The control system is implemented as a planning problem with some deterministic elements (craft position and generation) and some probabilistically predicted elements (interference, drag and malfunctions). A heuristic solver is proposed that makes control plans based on the projected and predicted model. A second heuristic operations system is presented which implements corrective actions in response to performance divergence from projections and assumptions. The requirement for having a robust control system of this type is discussed as are the benefits it provides in allowing maximization of spacecraft constellation utilization (as opposed to designated crafts for each separately serving customers). This system is also integral to allowing the constellation to operate from low-Earth orbit and thus reducing the level of free-space loss incurred by the system. We conclude by discussing the testing required for a mission-critical SSP control system (MCSSPCS). The level of reliability and security required for the MCSSPCS is considered and strategies for achieving this are discussed. Future plans for system (hardware) implementation and supporting software development are discussed. 94035 jason@madeinspace.us Researcher/Developer/Academia, We are pursuing a cheap method to demonstrate wireless power test experiment using CubeSats. Also, SSP as an electric service provider of lunar industries and other lunar applications. ABSTRACT Made In Space, The Space Manufacturing Company, has a long term goal of enabling large structures, such as SBSP, to be manufactured in space. The company has developed an expertise for additive manufacturing in microgravity environments and is currently building a 3D Printing facility for the International Space Station which is manifested for launch on SpaceX-5 in mid-2014.