While development activities of large arrays are underway, these are aimed primarily at GEO telecommunication satellites.

Targets for current array developments aimed at GEO communications vary from 120 - 160 W/kg and up to 40 kw/m3.

Although these concepts can be increased in scale somewhat, the power output necessary for future exploration missions is beyond their reach.

 

Consequently, a new array concept is required, which can offer the necessary power output for such missions.