Characteristics evaluation of Carbon Nanotube Actuators for realizing the Solar Power Satellite

Abstract

  Currently, the model of Space Solar Power Systems (SSPS) constructed from power generation and transmission panels is considered feasible models. This model made from a lot of panel units which have solar panels and microwave antenna array with different side. SSPS orbits on geostationary satellite orbit, so positional relation of sun and satellite will change cyclically. And it cause satellite’s cyclic thermal deformation. Controlling deformation is important problem to realize efficient power transmission, because flatness of satellites influence the power transmission efficiency of microwaves. We describe experimental result of carbon nanotube actuators (CNA) aimed to control angular among the panel units for keeping flatness of satellite.