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Design considerations for Mars photovoltaic power systemsConsiderations for operation of a photovoltaic power system on Mars are discussed with reference to Viking Lander data. The average solar insolation at Mars is 590 W/sq m, which is reduced yet further by atmospheric dust. Of major concern are dust storms, which have been observed to occur on local as well as on global scales, and their effect on solar array output. While atmospheric opacity may rise to values ranging from 3 to 9, depending on storm severity, there is still an appreciable large diffuse illumination, even at high opacities, so that photovoltaic operation is still possible. If the power system is to continue to generate power even on high-optical-opacity (i.e., dusty atmosphere) days, it is important that the photovoltaic system be designed to collect diffuse irradiance as well as direct. Energy storage will be required for operation during the night. Temperature and wind provide additional considerations for array design.
Document ID
19910057365
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Landis, Geoffrey A.
(NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Appelbaum, Joseph
(NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Date Acquired
August 15, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1990
Subject Category
Ground Support Systems And Facilities (Space)
Meeting Information
Meeting: IEEE Photovoltaic Specialists Conference
Location: Kissimmee, FL
Country: United States
Start Date: May 21, 1990
End Date: May 25, 1990
Accession Number
91A41988
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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