NASA Prepares Orion Spacecraft for Solar Array Installation
NASA is advancing preparations for the Orion spacecraft by initiating the installation of its four solar array wings, a critical step for the upcoming Artemis missions. These arrays are essential for providing the necessary power to support both crewed and uncrewed missions to the Moon and beyond.
Key Developments:
Preparation for Solar Array Installation:
- Technicians at NASA's Kennedy Space Center have relocated Orion from its assembly stand to facilitate the installation of the four solar array wings.
- Technicians at NASA's Kennedy Space Center have relocated Orion from its assembly stand to facilitate the installation of the four solar array wings.
Functionality of Solar Arrays:
- Each of the four solar array panels is designed to generate approximately 11 kilowatts of power, collectively spanning about 63 feet. These arrays are integral components of Orion's European Service Module, which supplies power, propulsion, air, and water to the spacecraft.
- Each of the four solar array panels is designed to generate approximately 11 kilowatts of power, collectively spanning about 63 feet. These arrays are integral components of Orion's European Service Module, which supplies power, propulsion, air, and water to the spacecraft.
Protective Measures During Launch:
- Following the installation of the solar arrays, technicians will attach three 14-foot-tall fairing panels to Orion's service module. These panels serve as protective shells, shielding the solar arrays from the heat, wind, and acoustics encountered during launch and ascent. Additionally, they help redistribute the load between Orion and the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket during liftoff.
- Following the installation of the solar arrays, technicians will attach three 14-foot-tall fairing panels to Orion's service module. These panels serve as protective shells, shielding the solar arrays from the heat, wind, and acoustics encountered during launch and ascent. Additionally, they help redistribute the load between Orion and the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket during liftoff.
Collaborative Effort:
- The installation process is a collaborative endeavor involving teams from NASA, Lockheed Martin, the European Space Agency (ESA), Airbus Defence, and Airbus Netherlands. Their collective expertise ensures the precise integration of the solar arrays with Orion's service module.
- The installation process is a collaborative endeavor involving teams from NASA, Lockheed Martin, the European Space Agency (ESA), Airbus Defence, and Airbus Netherlands. Their collective expertise ensures the precise integration of the solar arrays with Orion's service module.
These advancements are pivotal as NASA progresses toward the Artemis missions, aiming to return humans to the Moon and explore deeper into space.
