Cost Effective Solar Array based on High Efficiency Thin-Film Technology

ABSTRACT: This Phase I effort will involve the development of an ultra low cost, high specific power, modular and flexible solar array module using currently available thin-film solar cells, innovative interconnects, and flexible encapsulation. The high efficiency thin-film solar cells will enable high specific power and flexibility in the module. The interconnect scheme and encapsulation will allow low cost cell integration and can be easily adapted to different size panels. The resulting technology will be lighter and less expensive than state-of-the-art (SOA) nanosatellite solar arrays, and will be easily reconfigured for larger spacecraft arrays, UAVs or other platforms. CTD will work closely with our university partner, the University of Colorado"s Laboratory for Atmospheric and Space Physics (LASP), to design, build, and test a proof-of-concept prototype during Phase I. The goal of Phase II will be to obtain flight heritage by flying a demonstration module on an upcoming LASP mission. BENEFIT: This new thin-film flexible module will provide higher specific power to nanosatellites at a lower cost. Both improvements are needed to provide the power for additional capabilities that are continuously being developed. Reduced weight and lower cost solar arrays will be beneficial to all sizes of spacecraft, including the largest that will require 30kW of power or more.