Saft lithium-ion battery system will power Argentina’s ARSAT-1 GEO communications satellite

Empresa Argentina de Soluciones Satelitales Sociedad Anonima, AR-SAT, is a company incorporated by the Argentine Government under a law passed in 2006. The company aims to develop the Argentine geostationary orbital slots by means of telecommunications satellites built in Argentina. AR-SAT has selected INVAP, a satellite manufacturer established in Bariloche, Argentina, as prime contractor for the development and manufacturing of the satellites. “This is a significant contract for Saft as AR-SAT is a new customer for us that will help establish a foothold in Argentina, which we regard as an important emerging country in the space sector,” said Philippe Jehanno, General Manager of Saft’s Space and Defence Division.

“It also provides a great platform for increasing our penetration in Latin-America.” The rechargeable Saft Li-ion battery system will provide reliable onboard power for ARSAT-1, ensuring continuity of service for the two eclipse seasons each year when its solar panels are blocked from the sun. The ARSAT-1 battery system will feature Saft’s latest Li-ion technology in the form of the new VES 180 cells that offer the highest specific energy (Wh/kg) of any battery chemistry currently available. The VES 180 cells provide an additional 30 percent of energy (40 Wh), compared to VES 140 cells. This has enabled the ARSAT-1 designers to save weight on the battery so that more of its 400 kg payload can be utilized for revenue earning equipment. The 4P12S VES180 battery system configuration will provide a nominal 43.8 V and 200 Ah capacity. The VES 180 cells will be manufactured in Saft’s industrial factory in Bordeaux, France and integrated into the ARSAT-1 system and tested at Saft’s facility In Poitiers, France. Delivery is scheduled for 2011.