Space Lithium‐Ion Batteries

Lithium‐ion battery (LIB) technologies continue to enable higher power satellite payloads, lower spacecraft mass, increased planetary mission capability, and system‐level cost reductions across the aerospace marketplace. Earth‐orbiting satellites, planetary mission spacecraft, astronaut crew transfer, and cargo‐transport vehicles all utilize LIB‐based electrical power systems (EPS) to meet mission‐specific power requirements. Similar technology advantages realized by LIB‐based satellite systems are now being implemented on launch vehicle spacecraft avionics subsystems. This chapter discusses the performance, design, analysis, and testing of space‐qualified LIB technologies based on aerospace industry state‐of‐practice. A systems engineering approach to LIB requirements definition, analysis, design, and testing objectives is emphasized to reflect aerospace industry best practices.