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Space solar cell technology development - A perspectiveThe developmental history of photovoltaics is examined as a basis for predicting further advances to the year 2000. Transistor technology was the precursor of solar cell development. Terrestrial cells were modified for space through changes in geometry and size, as well as the use of Ag-Ti contacts and manufacture of a p-type base. The violet cell was produced for Comsat, and involved shallow junctions, new contacts, and an enhanced antireflection coating for better radiation tolerance. The driving force was the desire by private companies to reduce cost and weight for commercial satellite power supplies. Liquid phase epitaxial (LPE) GaAs cells are the latest advancement, having a 4 sq cm area and increased efficiency. GaAs cells are expected to be flight ready in the 1980s. Testing is still necessary to verify production techniques and the resistance to electron and photon damage. Research will continue in CVD cell technology, new panel technology, and ultrathin Si cells.
Document ID
19830046037
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Proceedings
Authors
Scott-Monck, J.
(California Institute of Technology, Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena CA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 11, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1982
Subject Category
Spacecraft Propulsion And Power
Meeting Information
Meeting: IECEC ''82; Seventeenth Intersociety Energy Conversion Engineering Conference
Location: Los Angeles, CA
Start Date: August 8, 1982
End Date: August 12, 1982
Accession Number
83A27255
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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