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Lunar Gateway Power System: Roll-Out Solar Arrays (rosas)
Table of Contents
the Lunar Gateway will utilize Roll-Out Solar arrays (ROSAs) to provide a continuous 60 kilowatt power supply, essential for supporting long-duration missions to the Moon and beyond. NASA describes the Gateway as a crucial component of sustained lunar exploration and a stepping stone for Mars missions, requiring substantial and reliable power.
Growth and Construction
Redwire Space, thru its subsidiary Deployable Space Solutions, is the primary contractor for building the ROSAs. Redwire announced the completion of ROSA deliveries in December 2023. The ROSAs were initially developed with funding from the Small Buisness Innovation Research (SBIR) programme. NASA’s SBIR program supported the initial technology development. Lanteris (formerly Maxar) is responsible for integrating the ROSAs with the Power and Propulsion Element (PPE) of the Gateway. Lanteris was awarded the contract for the PPE in 2019.
Functionality and Deployment
ROSAs are designed to be launched in a compact, rolled-up configuration to fit within the launch vehicle’s payload fairing. NASA explains that this deployment method minimizes the volume required for transport. Once in orbit, the arrays will autonomously deploy using a flexible boom mechanism, eliminating the need for complex motors. Prosperous deployment tests were conducted in July 2023.Redwire reported positive results from these tests, confirming the arrays’ ability to unfurl and maintain structural integrity.
Power and Propulsion Element (PPE)
The PPE, built by Lanteris, will serve as the foundational element of the Gateway, providing power, communications, and attitude control. NASA awarded the PPE contract to Maxar (now Lanteris) in 2019.The PPE is scheduled to launch in late 2025. Spaceflight Now reported a delay in the launch date to late 2025 due to technical challenges. The ROSAs will be directly attached to the PPE.
breaking News check (2026/01/16 17:47:52): As of this date, the launch of the Power and Propulsion Element (PPE) remains scheduled for late 2025, even though ongoing technical reviews continue. Spaceflight Now provides the latest updates on the Gateway’s development and launch schedule. There have been no major changes to the ROSA design or construction reported since the December 2023 delivery completion announcement.