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Apparent luminosity of solar power satellitesThe objective of this investigation was a quantitative characterization of solar power satellite luminosity as seen from the earth. The reflective characteristics of the reference photovoltaic satellite configurations are defined. Diffuse reflection from a single satellite will, at maximum, fall between magnitudes -4 and -5. A 60-satellite fleet will have a maximum total luminosity equivalent to a single object of magnitude -9. Specular reflections from the array and antenna will be of magnitude -12 to -15, but visible only occasionally for about 2 minutes at a given location. Methods of preventing specular reflections from striking the earth are presented. Thermal cycle power conversion systems are discussed qualitatively as a means of reducing diffuse luminosity.
Document ID
19810026088
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Livingston, L. E.
(NASA Johnson Space Center Houston, Tex., United States)
Date Acquired
August 11, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1980
Publication Information
Publication: Space Solar Power Review
Volume: 1
Issue: 3, 19
Subject Category
Astronautics (General)
Accession Number
81A10492
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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