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The Solar Spectrum on the Martian Surface and Its Effect on Photovoltaic PerformanceSolar cells operating on the surface of Mars receive a spectrum of illumination different from the AM0 spectrum, since the sunlight is filtered by dust suspended in the atmosphere. This spectrum changes with the amount of dust in the atmosphere, as well as with air mass change due to time of day and season. This spectral variation affects the performance of solar cells. We used data from Mars Exploration Rovers to measure this spectrum. By comparing the measured intensity with the known reflectance of the pancam calibration target on the rovers Spirit and Opportunity, we measure the solar spectrum reaching the surface. The effect of this spectrum on the performance of solar cells is then calculated based on the spectral response of several different solar cell types.
Document ID
20110000777
Acquisition Source
Glenn Research Center
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
Landis, Geoffrey A.
(NASA Glenn Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Hyatt, Dan
(Elyria high School Elyria, OH, United States)
Date Acquired
August 25, 2013
Publication Date
May 7, 2006
Subject Category
Energy Production And Conversion
Report/Patent Number
E-15944
Meeting Information
Meeting: IEEE 4th World Conference on Photovoltaic Energy Conversion
Location: Waikoloa, HI
Country: United States
Start Date: May 7, 2006
End Date: May 12, 2006
Sponsors: Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Funding Number(s)
WBS: WBS 22-390-30-20
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Public Use Permitted.
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