Technology requirements for GaAs photovoltaic arraysAn analysis based on percent GaAs solar cell weight and cost is performed to assess the utility of this cell for future space missions. It is shown that the GaAs substrate cost and the end-of-life (EOL) advantage the cell can provide over the space qualified silicon solar cell are the dominant factors determining potential use. Examples are presented to show that system level advantages resulting from reduction in solar panel area may warrant the use of GaAs at its current weight and projected initial cost provided the EOL advantage over silicon is at least 20 percent.
Document ID
19820061477
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Scott-Monck, J. (Jet Propulsion Lab., California Inst. of Tech. Pasadena, CA, United States)
Rockey, D. (California Institute of Technology, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena CA, United States)