Performance analysis of AZUR 3G28 triple-junction solar cells optimized for operation in Jupiter environment

Abstract

The results of electrical characterization of AZUR 3G28 solar cells and solar cell assemblies (SCAs) at low intensity low temperature (LILT) conditions are reported. In order to avoid flat spot effect appearance, solar cells were optimized for operation at LILT conditions by modification of the front grid metallization. Superior BOL efficiency of about 35% at 0.037AM0 and -150degC was demonstrated on a large number of SCAs. In-situ characterization after electron irradiation at -150degC has shown that the illumination and the temperature result in the improvement of the cell voltage and current. These recovery effects have to be taken into account for correct determination of degradation coefficients for solar cells for missions at low intensity low temperature conditions