Verification of Mars solar radiation model based on Mars Pathfinder data

The solar radiation model for the Martian surface was developed based on the images taken by the two Viking Landers VL1 and VL2 cameras, and calculation of the solar flux function. This model was used for the design of the Pathfinder's photovoltaic arrays. The Pathfinder is equipped with various instruments capable of measuring data from which solar radiation quantities may be derived. In the present study, the authors use data of the Lander and Rover, and perform correlation calculations to the solar radiation model. This study shows that the solar radiation model predicts with good accuracy the solar radiation on the Martian surface for horizontal photovoltaic arrays and for an optical depth of 0.5 of the Martian atmosphere.