Evaluation Framework for On-Orbit Assembly of Space-Based Solar Power Structures

Space-based solar power concepts have evolved over the past few decades from economically impractical and technologically challenging massive monolithic structures to modular structures designed for manufacturability. Recent studies have proposed viable on-orbit assembly procedures and assembly sequences for the construction of modular space-based solar power structures. However, frameworks evaluating on-orbit assembly alternatives holistically with respect to viability and cost have not been proposed to date. Hence, in this paper, a framework for the systematic evaluation of alternatives for modular on-orbit assembly and maintenance of space-based solar power structures is proposed and used to conceptualize, analyze, and evaluate alternative concepts for an on-orbit assembly demonstration mission. A methodology for computing attributes corresponding to each criterion was established, along with a multi-criteria decision-making strategy to evaluate each alternative with respect to overall cost. In the case study, numerous alternatives, including diverse options for module movement, module attachment, and assembly sequence, were conceptualized and evaluated, and a sensitivity analysis was performed. Finally, the framework successfully demonstrated its ability to evaluate novel alternatives conceptualized in the case study and to illustrate the advantages and weaknesses of various design aspects.