Pablo Hernandez , European Space Agency
As small satellites evolve to accommodate more advanced payloads and avionics with higher power demands, the need for more efficient power generation, storage and distribution becomes critical – all within the same constrained form factor. Addressing this challenge involves strategies such as deploying larger solar panels, implementing sun-pointing mechanisms, integrating higher-capacity batteries, and developing next-generation Power Conditioning and Distribution Units (PCDUs) capable of handling increased power loads. Effective power management is essential to ensure the safety, longevity, efficiency, and reliability of satellite missions. This tutorial will explore these aspects in depth, introducing the EPS chapter from the Engineering Guidelines for ESA IOD CubeSat Projects. It will highlight key lessons learned, important design considerations, and upcoming challenges in PCDU development for future CubeSat missions.