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GP-B Post-Flight Analysis—Final Report - Gravity Probe B - Stanford ...

GP-B Post-Flight Analysis—Final Report - Gravity Probe B - Stanford ...

GP-B Post-Flight Analysis—Final Report - Gravity Probe B - Stanford ...

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8.3.5 Eclipse Cycle<strong>GP</strong>-B has an eclipse cycle that ranges from a maximum eclipse of ~36 minutes per orbit to no eclipses during itssolstice season (full sunlight season). From launch through the end of mission, <strong>GP</strong>-B experience three (3)solstice seasons, all-lasting close to twenty one (21) days. Figure 8-18 below summarizes the variation of eclipselength for the entire mission. Additionally, it displays the associated depth of discharge on the batteries overthat same time frame.8.3.6 Bus PowerFigure 8-18. Eclipse Length and Depth of Discharge MetricThe space vehicle bus power performed nominally throughout the mission:• All bi-levels & analogs are nominal• SPRU was commanded to VT Level 4 prior to launch and has not changed since.• Bus voltage and current are well within limits• Very low bus ripple values better than specificationsPower generated by the solar arrays is regulated by the Standard Power Regulator Unit (SPRU) and distributed,through the Power Distribution Unit (PDU), to vehicle loads and two on-board 35 Amp-Hour (AH) SuperNiCad batteries. The SPRU sole function is to supply regulated power to the bus and ensure batteries are fullycharged. At eclipse exit, the SPRU provides the spacecraft with maximum power (peak power) to satisfy thevehicle loads and fully charge the batteries in preparation for the next eclipse orbit period. Throughout themission, the system power margin has been trended and monitored (system power margin is defined as theadditional power available from the system after satisfying vehicle loads and fully charge the two batteries).<strong>Gravity</strong> <strong>Probe</strong> B — <strong>Post</strong> <strong>Flight</strong> Analysis • Final <strong>Report</strong> March 2007 225

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