Small Business Innovation Research/Small Business Tech Transfer
Materials and Structures Optimization / Process Development for the Mega-ROSA / ROSA Solar Array, Phase II
Project Description
Deployable Space Systems, Inc. (DSS), in collaboration with the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB), Department of Mechanical Engineering, will focus the proposed NASA STTR Phase 2 program on the materials optimization, structures optimization, creep / relaxation phenomena characterization and analytical modeling, and manufacturing process optimization/development for the Mega-ROSA/ROSA solar array. The ROSA technology (termed for: Roll-Out Solar Array) is a new/innovative mission-enabling solar array system that offers maximum performance in all key metrics and unparalleled affordability for NASA's Space Science & Exploration missions. ROSA will enable NASA's emerging Solar Electric Propulsion (SEP) Space Science & Exploration missions through its ultra-affordability, ultra-lightweight, ultra-compact stowage volume, high strength/stiffness, and its high voltage and high/low temperature operation capability within many environments. Multiple identified end-users provide strong commercial infusion paths for the ROSA solar array upon the successful execution of the proposed Phase 2 program technology advancements.
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Anticipated Benefits
NASA space applications are comprised of practically all Exploration, Space Science, Earth Science, Planetary Surface, and other missions that require high-efficiency photovoltaic power production through deployment of an ultra-lightweight and highly-modular structural system. The technology is particularly suited for NASA's SEP missions and other missions that require game-changing performance in terms of affordability, ultra-lightweight, compact stowage volume, and superior structural performance. The technology is also well suited for applications requiring scalability/modularity, high deployed strength/stiffness, operability within high radiation environments, high voltage operation, and operation in LILT and HIHT environments. Non-NASA space applications are comprised of practically all missions that require high-efficiency photovoltaic power production through deployment of an ultra-lightweight and highly-modular structural system. The technology is particularly suited for SEP missions that require game-changing performance in terms of affordability, ultra-lightweight, compact stowage volume, and superior structural performance. Applicable non-NASA space missions include: LEO surveillance, reconnaissance, communications and other critical payload/equipment satellites, LEO commercial mapping and critical payload/equipment satellites, MEO satellites & space-tugs, GEO commercial communications and critical payload/equipment satellites, and GEO communications and payload/equipment satellites. The proposed technology also has tremendous dual-use non-space commercial private-sector applicability including fixed-ground and deployable/retractable mobile-ground based systems.
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Project Library
Primary U.S. Work Locations and Key Partners
| Organizations Performing Work | Role | Type | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deployable Space Systems, Inc (DSS) | Lead Organization | Industry | Goleta, California |
Glenn Research Center
(GRC)
|
Supporting Organization | NASA Center | Cleveland, Ohio |
| University of California-Santa Barbara (UCSB) | Supporting Organization | Academia | Santa Barbara, California |
Primary U.S. Work Locations
-
California
-
Ohio
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