An improved technique for prediction and analysis of Solar Array performance for geosynchronous spacecraft

Conference · Wed Aug 01 04:00:00 EDT 1984 · Proc., Intersoc. Energy Convers. Eng. Conf.; (United States)

OSTI ID:6042291

Lyons, J W

A new approach to measuring and predicting solar cell array degradation on spacecraft, originated at COMSAT Laboratories, has been further refined and improved. Basically, the method consists of computer modeling of the tap voltage or tap current on shunt-regulated arrays. This paper describes an improved process for fitting the model to the data with high accuracy. Information on model correlation with long-term historical data and computer projections of power output on three Maritime Communications Satellite (MARISAT) spacecraft is cited as an example of the technique. Previous studies of the radiation environment indicate that the geosynchronous trapped electron fluence varies with longitude. An analysis of the longitude dependence of MARISAT solar cell array degradation due to geomagnetically trapped electrons is therefore also included.

• Research Organization: COMSAT Laboratories, Clarksburg, Maryland
• OSTI ID: 6042291
• Report Number(s): CONF-840804-
• Conference Information: Journal Name: Proc., Intersoc. Energy Convers. Eng. Conf.; (United States) Journal Volume: 1
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

14 SOLAR ENERGY
140501 -- Solar Energy Conversion-- Photovoltaic Conversion
140600* -- Solar Energy-- Photovoltaic Power Systems
BASIC INTERACTIONS
COMPUTERIZED SIMULATION
ELECTROMAGNETIC INTERACTIONS
ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
EQUIPMENT
INTERACTIONS
PERFORMANCE
PHOTOVOLTAIC POWER SUPPLIES
PHYSICAL RADIATION EFFECTS
POWER SUPPLIES
RADIATION EFFECTS
SATELLITES
SIMULATION
SOLAR CELL ARRAYS
SOLAR EQUIPMENT
SPACECRAFT POWER SUPPLIES
THERMAL DEGRADATION