There are so many exciting comets, planets, dark matter, and far-flung galaxies for our robot satellites to probe. Besides, everything we do out there runs off electricity in some or other way. NASA has just announced a project to develop micro batteries to take us to the stars. They have their eye on solid-state ones because they need them for their new generation of micro satellites.
This is Part of the Small Spacecraft Technology Program
The NASA Small Spacecraft Technology Program is a paradigm shift away from large space vehicles to more compact ones. This may have to do with paying for commercial launches now there are no more shuttles. But NASA is not saying.
It may also have to with smaller being cheaper in terms of the cost of raw materials.
Project Signed to Develop Batteries to Take Us to the Stars
NASA has signed a contract with the University of Miami to develop compact, long-lasting, solid-state batteries. It hopes they will also be suitable for building into the walls of houses for off-grid solar systems too. They are even considering using them as structural trusses on the micro-satellites themselves.
The possibility of solid-state batteries just two to three millimeters thick is amazing! “Creating a structural battery material could revolutionize the way NASA operates small payloads,” a NASA spokesperson explains.
“Rather than … a battery … taking 35% of the available volume, the battery now resides in the structure.” This means more space for research science.
How Miami Uni is Building the Prototype Battery
First, the researchers assemble a matrix of tiny carbon fiber squares in a plastic bag. Then they draw the air out so the vacuum compresses these together. Finally, they bake them in an oven to cure the resin epoxy in the carbon fiber. After creating several more similar layers, they have the basis for batteries to take us to the stars. That’s amazing!
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Starry Islands in the Night Sky
Preview Image: Micro Satellites
