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Completed TRL 3 (started at 2, targeting 3)
Modern space solar power systems use multi-junction cells that deliver high efficiency (~30%) at one-sun irradiance but suffer efficiency losses in extreme radiation and low solar irradiance and low temperature (LILT) environments. These radiation and LILT effects limit both the end of life power and distance of solar powered outer planet missions. To operate in extreme environments, conventional coverglass interconnected cells require thick and heavy coverglass. Furthermore, LILT missions necessitate time and cost intensive individual cell screening. We propose a new microcell solar concentrator to bypass these limitations, dramatically improving radiation tolerance and efficiency in LILT without comprising specific power, efficiency, or simplicity. The system uses microscale multi-junction solar cells bonded to a reflective micro-concentrator optic. To validate the design, we built a 1.7 mm thick proof-of-concept system which achieved a terrestrial power conversion efficiency of 25.8 ± 0.2% over a ±9.5° angular range, equivalent to ~111 W/kg specific power under AM0. Building off these results, we propose a space-optimized system with a geometric concentration ratio of 30x that is ultra-compact (<600 µm thick) and capable of >350 W/kg at >33% power conversion efficiency under AM0. The reliability and performance of this system will be demonstrated in simulated and real space and LILT environments. Success will position this technology for scale-up and enable solar powered discoveries beyond the range of conventional space solar power.
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