Some Aspects of Solar Array Optical Degradation in Near-Earth Orbits

摘要

Using the results of inspection of the solar array fragments returned to the Earth from MIR after long-term operation in space, some aspects of solar arrays degradation are presented. The effect of space factors on protected and unprotected silicone rubber layers and the physicochemical mechanism of the rubber transformation to silicon dioxide are considered. Using the Delphi method, solar array optical degradation due to destruction factors, e.g., contamination, adhesives darkening, and so on, is analyzed. Quantitative estimates are also presented.