Astro-Technology SOHLA (Space Oriented Higashiosaka Leading Association) has selected Glasgow based small satellite power specialist, Clyde Space, to supply the complete power system for the SOHLA-2 spacecraft. SOHLA-2 is a 50kg microsatellite and will be the first demonstrator of Panel ExTension SATellite (PETSAT) which was first proposed by the Nakasuka Laboratory of University of Tokyo.
PETSAT consists of a combination of standardized subsystem panels that are hinged together and deploy/unfold once the spacecraft is in orbit.
The PETSAT concept is configured such that mission designers can launch their own PETSAT for a significantly lower cost and shorter development time by providing the ability to select and assemble off-the-shelf panel subsystems as required. The main payload on SOHLA-2 is lightening monitoring experiment and the mission will also demonstrate end-of-life de-orbiting through the use of a low-cost on-board propulsion system. SOHLA are currently investigating launch opportunities for SOHLA-2, targeted for end of 2007 into LEO.
The SOHLA-2 Clyde Space power system will consist of high efficiency multi-junction solar cell panels, a lithium ion battery and power management electronics. SOHLA-2 is very unique in its design and implementation and the power system is no different. Each of the 8 spacecraft panels is equipped with its own self contained power system consisting of at least 8W of solar array, a 16Whr lithium ion battery and a power management system.
The power management system consists of; active solar panel maximum power point tracker, battery charge management, voltage regulators, power distribution and protection, and a digital interface for control and monitoring purposes. Power is shared between the panels and across the spacecraft at battery level to ensure that power is available where it is needed most on the satellite throughout the duration of the mission.
Clyde Space is delighted to be part of the SOHLA-2 team on this exciting and novel project. Clyde Space bring extensive experience in the design and implementation of small satellite power systems to SOHLA-2, complementing the existing extensive spacecraft design skills and innovation of the Astro-Technology SOHLA.
