A high-performance photovoltaic concentrator array: The mini-dome Fresnel lens concentrator with 30% efficient GaAs/GaSb tandem cells

A high-efficiency, lightweight space photovoltaic concentrator array is described. Previous work on the mini dome Fresnel lens concentrator concept is being integrated with Boeing's 30% efficient tandem GaAs/GaSb concentrator cells into a high-performance photovoltaic array. Calculations indicate that, in the near term, such an array can achieve 300 W/m/sup 2/ at a specific power of 100 W/kg. Emphasis of the program has now shifted to integrating the concentrator lens, tandem cell, and supporting panel structure into a space-qualifiable array. A description is presented of the current status of component and prototype panel testing and the development of a flight panel for the Photovoltaic Array Space Power Plus Diagnostics (PASP PLUS) flight experiment.<
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