How do manned spacecraft use electricity in space?

Generally speaking, manned spacecraft can use solar power, nuclear power, fuel cells and batteries as power. The specific choice is influenced by multiple factors, such as the power consumption of manned spacecraft, the length of stay in space and so on.

Take Shenzhou XII, which was successfully launched on June 17 this year, as an example. It adopted the form of "solar power generation plus electricity storage".

The power system of Shenzhou 12 is mainly composed of solar cell wings and energy storage batteries. In the illumination area, the solar wing converts solar energy into electric energy for the whole cabin and stores energy for the lithium ion battery. It is estimated that the intensity of sunlight received by solar panels in space is 1.4 times that of the earth's surface. At the same time, the space solar power station can get rid of the influence of day and night and weather and realize 24-hour uninterrupted power supply. In the shaded area, the battery supplies power for the whole cabin.

The batteries used in the spacecraft are also cleverly designed. On the one hand, the battery adopts ceramic diaphragm, which can prevent internal short circuit. On the other hand, the flame retardant materials used in the battery pack can prevent high temperature from causing combustion. The battery can supply power efficiently and cleanly while ensuring safety.

Similarly, the power supply of the space station running in space comes from solar energy.

The power supply of China Space Station mainly depends on four solar panels installed outside the Exploration and Meng Tian experimental modules. The photoelectric conversion rate of these solar panels is over 30%, which is higher than that of International Space Station 15%. It can be said that the high power generation efficiency of China Space Station reflects the technical advantages of China Space Station.

Space dream, Chinese dream. In the process of the vigorous development of China's space industry, the support of electricity has never been absent. In the agreement to go to the stars and the sea, there is never a shortage of electricity.

I wish all the best in the space life of Shenzhou XIII for half a year ~