UPC

Developed for the University Physics Competition, The Analysis of Mars Electrical Power investigates how to meet a Martian base's long-term energy demand while minimizing the mass transported from Earth. The proposed system combines thin-film gallium arsenide photovoltaic panels, lightweight support structures, electrical transmission, and solid-state lithium-ion energy storage in an integrated design.

The model accounts for solar irradiance, dust accumulation, and transmission losses to evaluate panel requirements and circuit layouts. A solid-state lithium-ion storage subsystem is sized for a 24-hour power reserve, balancing energy density, mass, and safety. Comparisons with hydrogen-based, aluminium-based, and nuclear alternatives examine the trade-offs that inform the proposed photovoltaic solution.

What It Enables

• Modeling an integrated power system for a 150 kW Martian base over a two-year mission.
• Estimating photovoltaic requirements under changing sunlight and dust accumulation.
• Evaluating panel-array layouts and conductor choices to reduce transmission losses and system mass.
• Sizing energy storage for a 24-hour reserve and assessing material choices for safety and transport.

My Role

• Team leadership and system architecture. Led the team, proposed the overall power-system concept, and designed the architecture integrating power generation, transmission, and energy storage.
• Energy storage design. Designed the solid-state lithium-ion storage subsystem, evaluating battery materials and sizing its capacity and mass for a 24-hour power reserve.
• Comparative analysis. Compared the proposed photovoltaic system with hydrogen-based, aluminium-based, and nuclear alternatives, assessing mass requirements and feasibility under Martian conditions.
• Delivery within 72 hours. Led the team from the initial proposal through modeling, analysis, and completion of an English-language technical essay within 72 hours.