AI Insight
NASA has successfully augmented the International Space Station's power supply by installing eight International Space Station Roll Out Solar Arrays (IROSAs) between 2021 and 2023. These next-generation arrays use a compact, lightweight design that launches as a cylinder and deploys autonomously like a yoga mat, with each array generating approximately 28 kilowatts of power despite being half the size of legacy arrays. The complete upgrade will increase the station's total power capacity by more than 160 kilowatts to support life support systems, research investigations, and operations.
Why it matters
The enhanced power system extends the International Space Station's operational capabilities for conducting research that benefits life on Earth and serves as a critical testbed for technologies needed for future deep space exploration missions. The rollout solar array technology demonstrates advances in space power systems that can be applied to planetary defense missions and human exploration beyond Earth's orbit.
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Power Up: Roll Out Solar Arrays Boost Space Station Power Supply
From the International Space Station’s unique position 250 miles above Earth, the Sun is a vital source of energy. Solar power supports the station’s life support systems, daily activities, and hundreds of research investigations that improve life on Earth and prepare humans for deep space exploration. Over the past five years, NASA augmented the station’s power generation and distribution capability with next-generation International Space Station Roll Out Solar Arrays (IROSAs).
In 2017, a technology demonstration conducted aboard the space station tested the effectiveness of the arrays. The lightweight, compact design launches as a cylinder and unfurls like a yoga mat after installation. This advanced design reduces mass and volume at launch and uses an autonomous, self-deploying system that minimizes risks during rollout.
The IROSAs were designed, manufactured, and tested by Redwire under a contract with Boeing and are about half the size of the station’s legacy arrays. Despite being smaller, the arrays are capable of producing about 28 kilowatts of additional power.
Six IROSAs were installed outside of the space station between 2021 and 2023. In 2023, power projections prompted a request for another set of IROSAs, which launched in Dragon spacecraft’s trunk during the SpaceX 35th commercial resupply services mission to space station for NASA. Together, the eight IROSAs will increase power by more than 160kW for research and operations.
With the full upgrade in place, the space station’s revitalized power system not only supports NASA’s legacy in low Earth orbit but also helps advance technology that will extend the agency’s reach into the solar system. From planetary defense demonstrations, like the Double Asteroid Redirection Test, to future human exploration efforts, the space station is an essential testbed for the technologies needed for expeditions beyond Earth’s orbit.
Source: Power Up: Roll Out Solar Arrays Boost Space Station Power Supply