Lithium-ion batteries for space

1 Introduction

The role of advanced lithium-ion battery (LIB) power systems has been critical in enabling widespread decarbonization of fossil fuel-consuming transportation. The evolution of hybrid and all-electric applications in land, air, maritime, and rail transportation systems has greatly benefited from the diverse performance characteristics of LIB technology. Research and development (R&D) into advanced LIB technology remains a top priority for advancing the next generation of electric vehicles, all-electric passenger aircraft, and future spacecraft applications. In contrast to the revolutionary changes that characterize the evolution of commercial LIB applications, the unique performance requirements, harsh environments, high reliability, and cost constraints of spacecraft LIB systems lead to a more conservative approach in adapting commercial LIB development to traditional spacecraft system applications. As such, the space LIB industry has traditionally been viewed as a niche battery market driven by unique spacecraft customer-driven requirements. These unique space LIB requirements are characterized by a diverse set of electrical, mechanical, and thermal performance operating conditions, addressing the needs of harsh space mission environments and extended service lives. In addition, stringent ground performance and safety testing requirements will generate additional costs to qualify space LIB-based electric power systems (EPS). As a key component of the next generation of spacecraft EPS, energy storage technology will need to continue to improve in performance, safety, and reliability design to meet the increasing demands of spacecraft power and service life.