An overview of photovoltaics for space applicationsSignificant progress in both silicon and GaAs technology for photovoltaic applications has been made. As a result 50 micron silicon cells, incorporating all the recent processing advancements, have been produced which deliver over 19 mW/sq cm initial power. These cells also display impressive performance after exposure to 1 MeV electrons, delivering 15 mW/sq cm after a fluence of 1 x 10 to the 15th e/sq cm. GaAlAs cells are now being made which have conversion efficiencies and radiation resistance superior to the best silicon solar cells. A discussion of the work that led to this situation, as well as an attempt to project further progress in both silicon and GaAs technology is given.
Document ID
19790056937
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Scott-Monck, J. (California Institute of Technology, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena Calif., United States)