Advanced Solar Dynamic Space Power Systems, Part I: Efficiency and Surface Optimization

The aim of this work is the proposal and the analysis of advanced solar dynamic space power systems for electrical space power generation. The detailed thermodynamic analysis of SDCC (Solar Dynamic Combined Cycle) and SDBC (Solar Dynamic Bynary Cycle) systems is carried out. The analysis is completed with an optimization procedure that allows the maximum efficiency and minimum surface conditions to be obtained. The calculation is carried out for the orbital conditions of the NASA-Freedom Space Station. The results are presented, compared with the data already published for a reference CBC (Closed Brayton Cycle) plant (Massardo, 1993b), and discussed in depth.