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Active TRL 4 (started at 1, targeting 6)
The Advanced Modular Power Systems (AMPS) project is infusing new technology into power systems and components and proving their capabilities through exploration-based ground demonstrations.
The AMPS project includes the development of electronic modules which, when combined with standardized interfaces and chassis, provides commonality across a variety of exploration vehicles for future NASA missions. The AMPS project is developing and advancing a government reference design that verifies the Modular Electronic Standard for Space Power Systems (MESSPS) which standardizes the form, fit, and function of both the electronic modules (circuit cards) and modular electronic unit (power system components).
The current focus is on technology maturation of the hardware designs (including successful environmental testing), verification of the MESSPS standard, and infusion/transfer of the standard to industry and NASA Moon to Mars programs.
The AMPS project seeks to transform future space power system architectures with a modular approach, standardizing the power system at the electronics module level, and validating the modular approach through ground-based demonstrations. The anticipated benefits include opportunities to minimize power system maintenance operations, improve power system availability by reducing outage times and restoring power, and reduce the number of unique spare parts thus reducing the sparing mass and volume requirements that are necessary to enable sustainable exploration missions and systems.
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