Aerospace Solar Support

Are solar cells a reliable energy source for aerospace applications?

Solar cells (SCs) are the most ubiquitous and reliable energy generation systems for aerospace applications. Nowadays, III–V multijunction solar cells (MJSCs) represent the standard commercial technology for powering spacecraft, thanks to their high-power conversion efficiency and certified reliability/stability while operating in orbit.

Can solar cells be used in aerospace applications?

A solar cell is a common energy source for aerospace applications. Traditionally these are high-cost, high-efficiency, high-fidelity III-V or silicon-based devices. In this chapter we present an overview of a variety of solar cells with potential to perform in niche aerospace applications at lower costs without sacrificing performance or power.

Are solar panels a good option for the aerospace industry?

The aerospace industry will rely on solar panels to meet this growing energy demand. There is great interest in operating high-voltage systems (300–600 V), but we currently lack the capabilities required for long-duration high-voltage power supply systems.

Can solar energy power high-endurance stratospheric flight?

At Airbus, we work to harvest this alternative renewable energy source to power high-endurance stratospheric flight. Today, Airbus is advancing solar cell technology to enable unmanned aerial vehicles to stay aloft in the stratosphere for extended periods – using only sunlight as energy. Our work in solar flight is focused on:

Will solar power be needed for space exploration?

The next generation of space exploration will require substantial power. Scientific exploration, Earth observations, telecommunications, electric propulsion systems, and human life support systems are driving the increasing power requirements . The aerospace industry will rely on solar panels to meet this growing energy demand.

What is space-based solar power?

Space-Based Solar Power, SBSP, is based on existing technological principles and known physics, with no new breakthroughs required. Today’s telecom satellites transmitting TV signals and communication links from orbit are basically power-beaming satellites – except at a far smaller scale of size and power.