UltraFlex and MegaFlex - Development of highly scalable solar power

This paper reviews the application history of UltraFlex solar power technology and the recently demonstrated evolution of the mechanical platform into MegaFlex to support higher power level applications. A MegaFlex wing employs UltraFlex technology enhanced to enable very high-power solar electric propulsion (SEP) missions through the introduction of spar-folding joints and associated extension panel hinges. These advances allow stowage for launch in an even more compact volume with the important (stowed length) dimension significantly reduced. The subject development activity was successful in rapidly maturing MegaFlex to a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 5+ to support near-term 30-50 kW SEP applications along with extensibility to 300-500 kW and beyond.