INVESTIGATION OF THERMOPHOTOVOLTAIC CELL DESIGNS FOR USE IN SPACE POWER SYSTEMS
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Authors
Bonitz, Alexandria M.
Subjects
thermophotovoltaic
TPV
converter cell
nuclear
spacecraft design
TPV
converter cell
nuclear
spacecraft design
Advisors
Michael, Sherif N.
Adams, Christopher A.
Date of Issue
2022-09
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
As technology and spacecraft design advance, the demand for power is ever more prevalent. Photovoltaic cells continue to be the industry standard for space power, and their efficiencies have progressed significantly. However, as spacecraft become more exquisite, modest solar arrays are scaling into massive booms, and time spent in eclipse is becoming increasingly problematic. Tuning photovoltaic cells to the infrared region, coupled with a thermal source, removes the requirement for sunlight and allows the spacecraft to generate electricity even in complete eclipse. Thermophotovoltaic (TPV) cells also allow a spacecraft to operate at great distances from the sun so long as a heat source is present. This thesis explores the possibility of incorporating TPVs coupled with nuclear power systems into spacecraft design for future Earth-bound and interplanetary missions.
Type
Thesis
Description
Series/Report No
Department
Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering (MAE)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
Sponsors
DoD Space
Funder
Format
Citation
Distribution Statement
Approved for public release. Distribution is unlimited.
Rights
This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.