Compare a telescope observatory’s daily electrical generation with platform, thermal-control, and instrument demand. The calculator accounts for instrument duty time, array output, effective sunlight, conversion efficiency, and a design margin to show energy surplus and the minimum array rating needed.
Demand = (platform load × 24 + instrument load × duty) × (1 + margin). Generation = array output × sun-hours × efficiency. Balance = generation − demand.
Treat the main result as an engineering estimate based on the stated inputs. Compare it with the applicable mission requirement and retain enough traceability to update the result when assumptions change.
This calculator supports early trade studies and does not replace mission-specific simulation, environmental analysis, or professional engineering review.
A 1,100 W platform plus a 700 W instrument for 8 hours uses 32,000 Wh/day before margin. With 20% margin demand is 38,400 Wh/day. A 2,600 W array at 14 hours and 80% produces 29,120 Wh/day, a 9,280 Wh/day deficit.
It uses the values shown in the input panel and the formula stated on this page. It does not add hidden operational or environmental allowances.
Yes. Decimal values are accepted within each field’s displayed range, and calculations retain precision until the result is formatted.
Use a value justified by your project’s maturity, uncertainty policy, and verification plan rather than treating the default as a universal recommendation.
No. It is a first-pass estimate for trade studies. Verify the design with subsystem models, test data, and mission-specific constraints.
Zero is accepted where it represents a physically meaningful absence of load, loss, background, duty, or maneuver demand. Inputs used as divisors must remain above zero.
| Item | Use |
|---|---|
| Primary inputs | Enter values in the units printed beside each field. |
| Margin or reserve | Applied only where stated in the formula. |
| Displayed result | Rounded for readability; internal math keeps full precision. |