Abstract Title   Characteristics of Quallion's Lithium Ion Cells for Aerospace Application Abstract Author(s)   Hiroshi Nakahara, Alex Pal, Hisashi Tsukamoto Abstract Presenter   Hiroshi Nakahara Abstract   Since the beginning of space flight, rechargeable batteries (also referred to as secondary batteries) have been deployed in space for both exploratory and satellite missions. Indeed, manned-space flight activities would not be possible in the absence of a safe, and reliable, rechargeable power source to drive life support, communications devices and mobile systems. Current uses include load-leveling and providing electrical power during eclipse periods in solar powered missions. Space vehicles must employ rechargeable batteries to store electrical energy. Given maintenance requirements and the fact that batteries can account for up to 20-25% of a typical satellite’s payload weight and 25-30 % of its volume, batteries pose a unique technical risk to any mission. With an average cost per pound at launch of $10,000.00, battery technology improvement that reduces volume and weight is highly desirable. This consideration is even more profound when considering new satellite system and NASA long-term mission goals that will require the launch of extensive life support and mission support hardware, including but not limited to habitations, vehicles, suits, tools and communications devices that will require extremely safe and reliable power sources.