Russia Develops Digital Power System for Spacecraft
The adaptive, AI-driven system will serve as the “intelligent core” of future satellites, improving efficiency and cutting launch costs.
Scientists at the Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR) are developing a digitally controlled power supply system for spacecraft, set to debut as an experimental prototype by 2027. The innovation will act as an “intelligent energy core”, providing stable power to all onboard systems while automatically adapting to the extreme and variable conditions of space.
The system continuously analyzes the satellite’s battery performance, load fluctuations, and component wear, ensuring reliable power distribution throughout the spacecraft’s operational lifetime.
Lighter, Smarter, and More Efficient
A key breakthrough of the project is the use of three-port energy converters—a novel engineering solution that allows a single universal converter to manage both solar panel input and battery output. This integration significantly reduces the mass and size of the entire power system, a crucial advantage for small satellites operating in low Earth orbit.
The reduced weight not only increases payload capacity but also lowers launch costs, making satellite deployment more affordable.
Training the Next Generation of Space Engineers
Beyond research, the project plays an important educational role. TUSUR students are directly involved in building and testing the system, gaining hands-on experience in real aerospace development. The initiative helps train a new generation of engineers for Russia’s space industry—professionals ready to design the power systems that will fuel the next wave of orbital technology.
