SpaceX’s New Starship Refuelling Solution: Solar Panels!

SpaceX’s New Starship Refuelling Solution: Solar Panels!
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#spacezone #spacex #starship #spacexstarship
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SpaceX’s New Starship Refuelling Solution: Solar Panels!
This is a Starship waiting in orbit for another Starship to arrive and perform a refueling operation. We can already see several differences compared to the current standard Starship design. One of the most noticeable features is the large solar panels. So, let’s take a closer look and figure out what’s going on here.
First, let’s talk about Starship’s solar arrays.
This is a key component for future deep space missions. Solar arrays will be a standard feature on long-duration versions of Starship, as shown in many of the Human Landing System concept visuals. This capability is critical for any spacecraft expected to operate beyond Earth orbit, where reliable and renewable power is essential.
SpaceX’s New Starship Refuelling Solution: Solar Panels!
In the HLS concept, these solar arrays will serve as the lander’s primary source of energy both in space and on the lunar surface. During launch, each array is stowed within a rectangular compartment located beneath the crew cabin. Depending on the final design chosen by SpaceX, the panels will either unfold or unroll to a deployed length of approximately 18 meters. The five panels are arranged 30 degrees apart in a hexagonal pattern, with one panel intentionally omitted. This gap provides an unobstructed view of the lunar surface for Starship’s commander and pilot during descent, and also allows for the deployment of the crew elevator that will lower astronauts to the surface.
SpaceX’s New Starship Refuelling Solution: Solar Panels!
While the Human Landing System is in orbit around the Earth or the Moon, the solar arrays will be positioned perpendicular to the spacecraft’s propellant tanks. Starship will orient its nose toward the Sun, allowing all five panels to maximize energy collection. It’s possible that the arrays will be retracted during landing to prevent damage from vibrations or debris kicked up by the engines, although this detail is not confirmed in current renderings.
Once Starship is on the lunar surface, the arrays will rest vertically along the body of the lander. At the Moon’s south pole, where Artemis 3 is targeting, the Sun hovers low on the horizon. This vertical orientation will optimize solar exposure and maximize energy generation.