Nighttime operation of photovoltaic systems in planetary bodies

Photovoltaic systems are generally operated during daytime to convert direct sunlight to electrical power. In this paper, we have studied the possibility of nighttime photovoltaic power generation in planetary bodies like moon using reflected light energy flux from nearby planetary objects and based on latest low-intensity low-illumination (LILT) solar cell technology. The expected performances of LILT single junction solar cells under the nighttime environments of some planetary bodies will be discussed. These photovoltaic systems can find applications in deep space power projects.