Almost 3,400 satellites are currently orbiting the earth (2021). Much of it is powered by electricity in some way. The on-board electronics, controls, radio technology and other consumers are electrically connected to a power source - usually a solar panel. But what actually happens as soon as a satellite flies over the "dark side" of the earth? It's night there right now and it's pitch black. Is the satellite running out of power?
Answer: no. Satellites also have batteries on board that can temporarily store electricity and supply their on-board consumers with electricity without interruption. In principle, lithium-ion batteries also work in space, explains Linda Bolay from the German Aerospace Center in this episode.
