SBIR-STTR Award

Dynovas’ Motorless Expandable Solar Array (MESA) system provides a novel solution that specifically addresses NASA’s call for technologies enabling structural and mechanical innovations for a 50-kW-class solar array that can be relocated and deployed at least 5 times. This solution was developed based on previous technologies that have proven track record such as inflatables and bistable composites and new technologies for deployment and packaging that specifically address the unique mission requirements for large deployable solar arrays. The MESA system is unique in that uses multiple technologies developed by Dynovas personnel to achieve this innovation. These include: Bistable Composites – Lightweight composite materials that provide motorless deployment force and strong structural support when deployed. Because this technology has no moving parts it is naturally dust resistant. Inflatable Technologies – These are lightweight and motorless deployment systems that house the solar arrays. The use of gas pressure provides deployment AND retraction forces, making the need for no motors. With no moving parts, the inflatable is inherently dust resistant. Mechanical and Structural – Use of self-tensioning guy wires and ratcheting system provide a safe and repeatable system for deployment and stowage. These are necessary to stabilize an array of this size on an uneven terrain. Novel Packaging Solutions – By packaging the arrays within the base structure, the system is compact and modular for launch, deployment, stowage and relocation. Using these technologies together, Dynovas was able to develop a solution for a deployable solar array that meets the requirements for the next generation 50-kW deployable solar array that can be lifted 10m high to avoid shadowing Potential NASA Applications (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words): The MESA system builds on near term NASA initiatives: Vertical Solar Array Technology (VSAT) project, Watts on the Moon Challenge, and Artemis Lunar Landings. The increased scale of MESA to 50 kW enables application to large power stations, habitats, recharging stations, and power substations. The robust inflatable boom can also apply to surface conforming arrays for the moon and Mars exploration and habitation. Potential Non-NASA Applications (Limit 1500 characters, approximately 150 words): The NASA specific lunar missions will also have parallel commercial efforts to which MESA applies. In addition to lunar exploration other dual use applications exist, including: refueling stations; orbiting debris removal; and terrestrial pop-up power and communications towers. Duration: 6

Dynovas’ Motorless Expandable Solar Array (MESA) system provides a novel solution that specifically addresses NASA’s call for technologies enabling structural and mechanical innovations for a 50-kW-class solar array that can be relocated and deployed at least 5 times. The system is designed for an efficiency of > 75 W/kg and a volume efficiency >22 kW/m3. This solution was developed based on previous technologies that have proven track record such as inflatables and bistable composites and new technologies for deployment and packaging that specifically address the unique mission requirements for large deployable solar arrays. The MESA system will be demonstrated at TRL 6 in Phase II via sub/full scale operation of key elements of the system, including array deployment, tower erection and retraction, and solar tracking. All systems are designed for the lunar environment (-80 °C to + 130 °C, under vacuum), including lunar dust. The Phase I successfully fabricated a scale model of the MESA system, with demonstrations of several key technologies, such as, bistable booms, inflatables, tensioned guy wires and a collapsible tower. In Phase II, Dynovas will demonstrate the prototype MESA major sub-systems at TRL 6. The Phase II technical objectives will bridge the gap between the proven concept and readiness for flight testing opportunities. The Phase II objectives include: Full scale demonstrations of key subsystems, including: tower mechanism, self-tensioning guy wires, deployable solar arrays, and solar tracking. Structure and system packaging conceptual design package Empirical testing of the proof-of-concept to validate the technologies potential Progress reporting Final report detailing Phase I success, Phase II objectives, and path to commercialization The TRL 6 MESA System, delivered at the completion of Phase II, provides NASA and others a complete power generation system for use from 50 kW-300kW power stations. Anticipated

Benefits:
The MESA system builds on near term NASA initiatives: Vertical Solar Array Technology (VSAT) project, Watts on the Moon Challenge, and Artemis Lunar Landings. The increased scale of MESA to 50 kW enables application to large power stations (300 kW+), habitats, recharging stations, and power substations. The overall scalability and redeployability also enables MESA to support smaller exploratory missions. The robust inflatable boom can also apply to surface conforming arrays for the moon and Mars exploration and habitation. The NASA specific lunar missions will also have parallel commercial efforts to which MESA applies. In addition to lunar exploration other dual use applications exist, including: refueling stations; orbiting debris removal; and terrestrial pop-up power and communications towers.