GaN based Power Converter and Hybrid Energy Storage using Super-Capacity

One key challenge for #Smallsats such as LUMELITE-1 to LUMELITE-5 is the power required by the payload. Power harnessing is constrained by the limited surface area of the solar panels. While using multiple deployable panels increase the power generated, an improved power converter can more efficiently use the same amount of energy to increase power to the payload. This desirably scales up power while maintaining satellite weight and volume.

The objective of this project is to investigate and develop a highly efficient and lightweight power supply system that will undergo space qualification testing. The power system developed for demonstration should achieve high peak power for payload operations of short duration as well as good continuous operating power with scalability features. The work also includes system-level studies (theoretical and simulation) for its extended use for peak power payload of up to the kW range in both space and industrial applications.