Powering the Future of Space: How DEEPSAT is Revolutionizing Deployable Solar Panels for Small Satellites

Background

DEEPSAT is a national R&D project funded by MINECO from the Government of Spain, part of the Retos-Colaboración 2016 program. The project focuses on the development of deployable solar panel technology for CubeSat architecture and small satellites, addressing market demand for increased power capabilities in nanosatellites. The initiative spans from March 2016 to December 2018 with a total budget of €801,890.45, supported by €532,334.75 in funding from MINECO. 

The challenge

The DEEPSAT project aims to demonstrate the technical feasibility of deployable solar panel systems capable of delivering up to 100W for CubeSats and up to 200W for small satellites weighing between 25-50 kg. A further challenge is integrating built-in sensors and actuators on solar panel substrates and optimizing solar cells to reach 35% AMO BOL (Beginning of Life) efficiency. 

The solution

Element Seville plays a crucial role in the DEEPSAT project. Our team is responsible for defining the requirements of deployable solar panel systems for satellites. To ensure compliance with launch and in-service conditions, we conducted vibration testing on all components intended for use in launchers. Additionally, numerical simulations of solar cell substrates and device joints were performed using Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis to predict and improve structural performance. 

The result

With Element’s support, the DEEPSAT project progressed toward validating deployable solar panels that meet power and structural standards for next-generation nanosatellites and small satellites. By verifying mechanical integrity through vibration testing and refining joint design through FEM analysis, Element helped bring innovative solar panel technology closer to operational readiness.