Enhanced Power Generation by Optical Solar Reflectors on Geostationary Spinners

A novel arrangement is proposed to enhance the power generating capabilities of a spin stabilized geostationary satellite (spinner). The unilluminated solar array area of the usual spinner (as sunlight falls on only one side) is illuminated by employing despun optical solar reflectors. The different mechanisms required for implementation of this arrangement are already space proven. The detailed study of this arrangement made by the authors reveals that the practical realization of this concept will enhance the power generating capability of the spinner and simultaneously reduce the weight (per unit power) and cost (per unit power) in such spinners.