MPBUS: Modular Power bus for Space Vehicles

Cost reduction in the access to space is leading the space race in the launchers market. Launcher’s companies are looking for a more efficient and economical way to place satellites in orbit. MPBUS project proposes a decentralized power bus distribution with jettisonable smart batteries combined with the use of PLC technology, data over DC, achieving overall weight reduction and harness simplification, both goals in line with Next Generation Launchers (NGL) targets. Two different bus interfaces have been developed, Battery Front End (BFE) in charge to connect power sources equipment to the power bus, and Device Front End (DFE) in charge to connect and protect power demanding equipment to the power bus. Same power wire is used for transmitting data for power management and telemetry, reducing overall data harness. Panel demonstrator prototype integrates these front ends to functionally test the application of MPBUS concepts to the combination of both buses, unregulated 28V Power Bus and Telemetry Subsystem, from VEGA launcher. Environmental tests have been performed to MPBUS devices successfully.