Thin-film and crystalline solar cell array system performance comparisons

This paper summarizes the results of a study of the performance of various solar array system configurations for 4 generic missions. Ranges of photovoltaic efficiencies were assumed for 2 device types: crystalline multijunction and "thin-film" cells. The study goal was to identify the potential performance of thin-film array systems, and to contrast that with crystalline cell platforms to project when and where thin-film arrays will be desirable. Representative power levels and system level requirements for LEO, MEO, GEO, and interplanetary (IP) mission applications were assumed and a number of appropriate array configurations were considered. This study endeavored to design and compare various array options against real mission requirements at end of life (EOL) using consistency in regard to loss factors, thermal effects, mass margins, radiation degradation, and other analyses. Comparisons of resulting performance metrics such as W/kg, W/m², W/m³, and MOI are given with commentary on design particulars, risks, and technology readiness. Different array systems each have particular missions and cell types for which their usage is attractive. To clearly lead in one metric generally requires a penalty in another.