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Solar panel thermal cycling testing by solar simulation and infrared radiation methodsFor the solar panels of the European Space Agency (ESA) satellites OTS/MAROTS and ECS/MARECS the thermal cycling tests were performed by using solar simulation methods. The performance data of two different solar simulators used and the thermal test results are described. The solar simulation thermal cycling tests for the ECS/MARECS solar panels were carried out with the aid of a rotatable multipanel test rig by which simultaneous testing of three solar panels was possible. As an alternative thermal test method, the capability of an infrared radiation method was studied and infrared simulation tests for the ultralight panel and the INTELSAT 5 solar panels were performed. The setup and the characteristics of the infrared radiation unit using a quartz lamp array of approx. 15 sq and LN2-cooled shutter and the thermal test results are presented. The irradiation uniformity, the solar panel temperature distribution, temperature changing rates for both test methods are compared. Results indicate the infrared simulation is an effective solar panel thermal testing method.
Document ID
19810005652
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Nuss, H. E.
(Industrieanlagen-Betriebsgesellschaft m.b.H. Ottobrunn, Germany)
Date Acquired
August 11, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1980
Publication Information
Publication: NASA. Johnson Space Center The 11th Space Simulation Conf.
Subject Category
Energy Production And Conversion
Accession Number
81N14164
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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