MicroSADA-18 Development of One Axis Solar Array Drive Mechanism for Small Satellites

In the last years, the small satellites sector has grown significantly and currently it is demanding the capability to integrate power systems with higher consumption in particular for communication systems, avionics, or instruments onboard. It is important to consider that two of the biggest challenges are the lack of enough volume to accommodate systems and the immeasurable lifetime versus user expectations. In response to this tendency, it is feasible to include a sun-tracking system to maximize harvested power by rotating the deployed panels and orientating them perpendicular to the Sun, thus maximizing the incident solar light. Achieving a modular design of a Solar Array Drive Assembly (SADA) with only 18mm of height provides the possibility of easily integrating such a system into even small satellites. Miniaturization is the key driver for the design and development of such a driving system. Its complexity resides not only in the precise motion mechanism that moves the panel to the desired position but also in the necessity of transferring power and telemetry signals since this system also works as a mechanical and electrical interface between the spacecraft and the solar array. An in-depth and complete test campaign has been carried out to prove its reliability. This paper shows the result of the development of the SADA tailored for nanosats and microsats, integrating the most advanced solution by the use of the latest electronic components found in terrestrial applications, with high electronics density in combination with miniaturized mechanisms for motorization.