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EADS Astrium Selects Saft as Supplier of Lithium-ion Cell Modules for Its Eurostar Platforms |
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BALTIMORE, Feb. 10, 2006/Satnews Daily/ — Saft has signed a Long Term Agreement with EADS Astrium for the exclusive supply of its high-technology, on-board, lithium-ion (Li-ion) cell modules for all Astrium Eurostar GEO (Geosynchronous Earth Orbit) platforms for communications satellites over the next four years.
Saft said the LTA is the results of the close cooperation between Saft and EADS Astrium over the last decade which has led to the qualification of a complete product range and successful in orbit operation of the first lithium- ion batteries for GEO applications.
The rechargeable Saft Li-ion cell modules, based on high-energy VES140 and VES180 cells, will provide a compact, weight-saving source of back-up power to ensure continuous, reliable operation of the satellites at times when their solar panels are in eclipse.
The first three contracts already signed under this LTA are worth a total of around $3 million (2.5 million euros).
Rather than using nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd) or nickel-hydrogen battery systems to provide this on-board power, EADS Astrium has selected the Saft's Li-ion battery technology. Saft VES140S cells are qualified by both the European Space Agency and Centre National d'Etudes Spatiales for all satellite applications. They have already entered in-flight service on two commercial and one military GEO satellites, and a further six Li-ion batteries have been delivered by Saft for GEO projects to be launched in 2006. The qualification of the Saft VES 180SA is close to be completed and will meet the need of next generation programs.
Saft said one of the main advantages of Li-ion battery technology is its capability to store the same amount of energy as a Ni-H2 battery in a smaller package, offering a weight saving of around 50 percent. This will enable both EADS Astrium and the satellite operator to utilize more of the satellite's crucial overall mass to carry a larger operational payload.
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