05. Are there generators and backup generators? What happens if all the generators break down? (A K2S Question)

From The Space Library

There are always more generators—fuel cells and solar cells—than we need as backup units. The Space Shuttle has three different sets of fuel cells. If it loses two of them, then the Space Shuttle can still fly, but it cannot use all the equipment—only the stuff needed to fly safely. If the solar panels break down, then the electricity will stop. We could carry extra solar panels to give us enough power. We can also use special very efficient batteries to store power for a short while.

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Answer provided by John Cavallaro

Question and Answer extracted from the book Kids to Space - by Lonnie Schorer

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