Results of the Solar Cell Experiments on the NTS-2 Satellite after 223 Days in Orbit.
Abstract
Results after 223 days in orbit of the solar cell experiments aboard the NTS-2 satellite are presented. The objective of the solar cell experiment, consisting of fifteen (15) separate experiments of five cells each, is to evaluate the performance of state-of-the-art solar cells in the space environment. These experiments will answer questions that have arisen from the previous NTS-1 solar cell experiments such as: the need for ultraviolet rejection filters in space solar cell systems, space qualification of electrostatic bonding techniques for solar cell converslides, and the improved efficiency to be realized from the use of texture cell surfaces. In addition, a gallium arsenide (GaA1As/GaAs) solar cell module is being flight tested. The average value of I(sc) measured in space on the first day of exposure agreed with solar simulator values to within 1.41 + or - 0.99 percent. The agreement between Voc in space with solar simulator values was 1.24 + or - 1.08 percent. After 223 days in orbit, the loss in power ranged from 4.6 percent to 46.5 percent with the exception of the Solarex 'low-cost space cell' which became open-circuited on the 69th day. Results are given of the changes in the photovoltaic parameters of each of the experiments. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1978
- Accession Number
- ADA061857
Entities
People
- Delores H. Walker
Organizations
- United States Naval Research Laboratory