SAPS
Solar Array Power SimulatorThe challenge
Developing solar panel power simulators for satellites during AIT phases requires precise replication of space conditions, managing high power levels, and ensuring reliability.
These solutions must be compact, adaptable, and deliver accurate performance validation under tight timelines.
Our solution
HENSOLDT´s Solar Array Power Simulator (SAPS) is a next-gen EGSE unit simulating satellite solar panel behavior during AIT phases.
It delivers constant, protected current to each cell array independently, operating in S3R or MPPT modes. It features self-test, status monitoring, and a fast safety loop for enhanced protection.
Features and benefits
Features
- Up to 24 parallelisable 8A 130V sections
- 25 kW maximum total power
- Efficiency of over 90%.
- Current regulation less than 0.2%
- Ripple-free recovery time of less than 10 μs
- Supports S3R and MPPT simulation modes
- All-in-one SAPS unit: current source, OCP/OVP, self-test, impedance matching
- Full remote control via CCSDS C&C Ethernet
Benefits
- Modular architecture for more flexibility
- Option to combine multiple SAPS units for more power
- The all-in-one SAPS unit results in optimal integration
- Innovative electronics for less heat loss
- Removable impedance matching module
- Removable end-to-end self-testing drawer that limits satellite connection (S/C) time
- Status tests can be carried out with the satellite connected, limiting the number of operations.
- User-friendly HMI allows quick viewing of all resources
- ITAR-free