The solar panel system with a total length of over 55 meters from the Wentian module can adjust its position to follow the Sun as the Tiangong station orbits the Earth.
The Tiangong space station installed the Wentian module last July, along with its massive “wings” designed to capture solar energy as the station orbits the Earth. In a recent video released by the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA), these wings rotate around the Tiangong station with the blue planet below, reported Space on August 13.
The solar power system is part of the Wentian laboratory module. The angle of the solar panels can be adjusted to align with the Sun as the Tiangong station moves in its orbit. Each solar wing of Wentian is approximately 30 meters long, giving a total wingspan of over 55 meters. Each row of panels has an area of about 110 m2.
Each solar wing of Wentian is approximately 30 meters long. (Image taken from the clip).
China plans to launch Mengtian, the third and final module of the Tiangong station, in October. This laboratory module will also carry a large solar power wing similar to that of Wentian.
The three astronauts aboard the Shenzhou 14 spacecraft are currently living and working in the Tiangong station and preparing for their first spacewalk from the Wentian module. They will also be tasked with welcoming the new Mengtian module upon its launch.
The solar panels are designed to provide power to the Tiangong station, which is expected to be continuously inhabited for over 10 years. Crews of three members will rotate in and out of this space station.
Meanwhile, the older and larger International Space Station (ISS) is equipped with a solar power system featuring a wingspan of 73 meters to support activities in orbit. The ISS has a mass of about 460 tons. Once completed, Tiangong will weigh approximately 20% of the ISS.
