Department ECE

MODERN SATELLITE
COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
21EC4055
Topic:
POWER SUBSYSTEM

Session - 12
 AIM OF THE SESSION

The aim of this session is to explain about Attitude and Orbit Control System

INSTRUCTIONAL OBJECTIVES

This Session is designed to:

1. Explain power subsystem
2. Describe how satellite generate power in space

LEARNING OUTCOMES

At the end of this session, you should be able to:

1. Explain power subsystem of satellite
2. Tell how satellite generate power in space
 POWER SUBSYSTEM

Power system is a vital subsystem, which provides the power required for working of a
satellite. Mainly, the solar cells (or panels) and rechargeable batteries are used in these
systems
Solar Cells
• Basically, the solar cells produce electrical power (current) from incident sunlight.
Therefore, solar cells are used primarily in order to provide power to other subsystems of
satellite.
• We know that individual solar cells generate very less power. So, in order to generate
more power, group of cells that are present in an array form can be used.

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RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES

• During eclipses time, it is difficult to get the power from sun light. So, in that situation
the other subsystems get the power from rechargeable batteries. These batteries produce
power to other subsystems during launching of satellite also.
• In general, these batteries charge due to excess current, which is generated by solar cells
in the presence of sun light.

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ADVANTAGES OF SOLAR CELLS

• Renewable,
• lightweight,
• long operational life
• Cheap Cost
• Robust

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KEY COMPONENTS OF SATELLITE POWER
SYSTEMS
• Solar Arrays
• Power Conditioning Unit (PCU)
• Energy Storage System (ESS)
• Power Distribution Unit (PDU)

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PCU

• The Power Conditioning Unit (PCU) in a satellite is a crucial component responsible for
regulating and conditioning the electrical power generated by the satellite's solar panels.
Its primary function is to ensure that the electrical power supplied to the satellite's
subsystems and instruments is stable, reliable, and meets the required voltage and
frequency specifications

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SATELLITE WITH SOLAR ARRAY PANEL

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CONTD…

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