The advanced, sensitive instruments flown on SSL missions usually require power supplies with very specific voltages. On the spacecraft, solar arrays charge a set of batteries, which vary in voltage over the course of the mission. Power converters are needed to take that varying voltage and convert it to a specific fixed voltage in order to run the instruments. At SSL, we design and assemble power converters to deliver anything from very low voltages (as low as 1 volt) to extremely high voltages of 15,000 volts or more. These converters start from a concept that scientists decide upon to meet their needs for the goals they wish to achieve. We’ll choose and install parts, test them, make corrections, and eventually deliver them to the spacecraft, where they’re integrated into the entire instrument package.