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Monolithic and mechanical multijunction space solar cellsHigh-efficiency, lightweight, radiation-resistant solar cells are essential to meet the large power requirements of future space missions. Single-junction cells are limited in efficiency. Higher cell efficiencies could be realized by developing multijunction, multibandgap solar cells. Monolithic and mechanically stacked tandem solar cells surpassing single-junction cell efficiencies have been fabricated. This article surveys the current status of monolithic and mechanically stacked multibandgap space solar cells, and outlines problems yet to be resolved. The monolithic and mechanically stacked cells each have their own problems related to size, processing, current and voltage matching, weight, and other factors. More information is needed on the effect of temperature and radiation on the cell performance. Proper reference cells and full-spectrum range simulators are also needed to measure efficiencies correctly. Cost issues are not addressed, since the two approaches are still in the developmental stage.
Document ID
19920022989
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Technical Memorandum (TM)
Authors
Jain, Raj K.
(NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Flood, Dennis J.
(NASA Lewis Research Center Cleveland, OH, United States)
Date Acquired
September 6, 2013
Publication Date
August 1, 1992
Subject Category
Electronics And Electrical Engineering
Report/Patent Number
NASA-TM-105832
E-7009-1
NAS 1.15:105832
Accession Number
92N32233
Funding Number(s)
PROJECT: RTOP 506-41-11
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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