Electric power generation using thermophotovoltaics for space applications

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Space missions are costly, limited and often short-lived. The capabilities and value of a space mission depends on the energy and power available on a spacecraft. For many space missions it is not possible to bring an energy source that can supply the required power throughout the entire duration of the mission. Energy can be harvested from the sun using photovoltaic (PV) cells, or from the orbital energy of a spacecraft using electrodynamic tethers. However, these sources of energy are not always available and require additional components, increasing the size and weight of a spacecraft. Another promising energy source is the waste heat generated on the spacecraft itself. Presently, excess heat on spacecraft is largely unused, and is most often concentrated and transported to a radiator and emitted to space to prevent overheating which adds additional weight. Nevertheless, the unwanted heat on a spacecraft has great potential to generate electrical power independently of solar panels. The goal of this research is to develop a spacecraft propulsion system with an integrated thermophotovoltaic (TPV) system. This TPV system will use otherwise wasted thermal energy from a spacecraft propulsion system to generate electric power, which can be used to power other subsystems onboard the spacecraft. This will increase the duration and capabilities of spacecraft missions, thereby providing Columbiad with a competitive advantage on a global scale in the space sector which will ultimately benefit Ontario and Canada.