Nickel Hydrogen Energy Storage for Satellites.

Work was performed over a 15 month period toward development of lightweight, multiorbit energy storage systems for satellites. The program objective was to use the inherent advantages of nickel-hydrogen cells such as higher energy density, longer life, use of pressure for charge indication and charge control, and tolerance for overcharge and overdischarge. A secondary objective was to investigate the use of a common system or common module for both low and synchronous orbit satellites. This was an exploratory development program to define critical design problems and initiate solutions. The program included subcontracting 50 A-hr cells, both boiler plate and lightweight performing parametric and cycle tests analyzing thermal, structural, and electrochemical performance pressure vessel material studies and material tests and integrating the cells into spacecraft. The study and test program resulted in a recommended design of a 50 A-hr cell with an estimated flight weight of 2.75 pounds.