NASA的罗曼空间望远镜太阳能电池板通过关键测试

NASA's Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope is making progress with its Solar Array Sun Shield, as recent tests have been successfully completed. The solar panels are crucial for powering and shading the observatory, contributing to the success of the mission by enabling observations and helping keep the instruments cool.

The Roman team has been working with two sets of panels, one for actual use on the observatory and another for preliminary assessments. Engineers at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center conducted thermal vacuum chamber tests to simulate the harsh conditions the flight panels will experience in space, including hot and cold temperatures and low-pressure environments. Additionally, the flight version of the panels was equipped with solar cells and subjected to testing to ensure their functionality under simulated sun exposure.

According to Jack Marshall, the Solar Array Sun Shield lead at NASA Goddard, using two panel versions has streamlined the testing process, saved time and money, and reduced the risk of damaging the panels intended for use on the observatory. The next step involves installing the flight version of the Solar Array Sun Shield on the Roman spacecraft, followed by comprehensive testing to ensure its readiness for launch and space operations.