Boeing awarded contract to increase space station power supply with new solar arrays

US aerospace giant Boeing has been contracted by the US National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa) to construct six new and additional solar arrays for the International Space Station (ISS). These will increase the ISS’ power supply by 20% to 30% and so allow it to undertake greater research and commercial activities. Boeing is the prime contractor for the sustainment of the ISS and also manufactured two International Docking Adapters for the station. The new arrays will measure 19 m by 6 m and will produce a combined total of 120 kW of electricity. This would be enough to power more than 40 average American homes. The delivery of the new arrays will start later this year.