A Dual Power Supply System for the Solar Close Observations and Proximity Experiments (SCOPE) Mission

Previous solar probes have relied on solar energy for power, but in the near-solar environment, traditional solar panels are prone to overheating and radiation damage, increasing system complexity and reducing power reliability. This study introduces a dual power system integrating solar-thermal thermoelectric generation with photovoltaic technology. First, suitable thermoelectric materials are screened, the geometric structure of the thermoelectric devices is simulated, and then the fabricated thermoelectric devices are subjected to cyclic heating–cooling power generation tests and long-duration high-temperature power generation tests. The results demonstrate that a single thermoelectric device can stably provide 3.5 W of power with excellent cycling stability. Additionally, this study discusses design concepts for energy storage and intelligent energy management systems required by the dual-power system. Designed for the Solar Close Observations and Proximity Experiments mission, this dual-power supply system integrates the benefits of both to address demands under varying environmental conditions.