A NASA study analyzing small satellite missions from 2000 to 2016 found that approximately 41.3% of these missions experienced total or partial failure. This underscores the critical importance of reliable systems in satellite operations.

NASA Reportntrs.nasa.gov

Unsuccessful deployments of solar arrays, antennas, and other spacecraft deployable appendages are among the main causes of initial satellite failures, leading to significant reductions in their capabilities.

NASA Technical Reportntrs.nasa.gov

NASA's Advanced Modular Power Systems (AMPS) project emphasizes the advantages of a modular approach, providing flexibility to configure power systems to meet specific mission needs.

NASA AMPS Projecttechport.nasa.gov

Significant failures in spacecraft systems have been caused by environmental factors, with a higher percentage attributed to plasma and radiation environments. This underscores the need for robust system designs to withstand harsh space conditions.

NASA Report on Spacecraft Failuresntrs.nasa.gov

Satellite on-orbit failures, though rare, are costly and cumulatively account for losses totaling many billions of dollars, emphasizing the need for robust system designs and failure mitigation strategies.

IEEE Space System Failuresieeexplore.ieee.org

Experts argue that space-based solar power stations have the potential to mitigate climate change through the provision of clean energy, indicating a growing interest in harnessing space-based energy solutions.

Earth.org on Space-Based Solar Powerearth.org

Companies like Rolls-Royce are exploring the development of micro nuclear reactors for space missions, aiming to provide reliable and efficient power sources for future space endeavors.

Financial Times - Rolls-Royce Space Reactorsft.com