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The Mars climate for a photovoltaic system operationDetailed information on the climatic conditions on Mars are very desirable for the design of photovoltaic systems for establishing outposts on the Martian surface. The distribution of solar insolation (global, direct and diffuse) and ambient temperature is addressed. This data are given at the Viking lander's locations and can also be used, to a first approximation, for other latitudes. The insolation data is based on measured optical depth of the Martian atmosphere derived from images taken of the sun with a special diode on the Viking cameras; and computation based on multiple wavelength and multiple scattering of the solar radiation. The ambient temperature (diurnal and yearly distribution) is based on direct measurements with a thermocouple at 1.6 m above the ground at the Viking lander locations. The insolation and ambient temperature information are short term data. New information about Mars may be forthcoming in the future from new analysis of previously collected data or from future flight missions. The Mars climate data for photovoltaic system operation will thus be updated accordingly.
Document ID
19890059158
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Appelbaum, Joseph
(NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Flood, Dennis J.
(NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Date Acquired
August 14, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1989
Publication Information
Publication: Space Power
Volume: 8
Issue: 3 19
ISSN: 0951-5089
Subject Category
Lunar And Planetary Exploration
Report/Patent Number
IAF PAPER ICOSP89-9-5
Accession Number
89A46529
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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