Design and Analysis of Solar Cell Array Configurations for Vertically Stabilized Satellites in Near-Earth Orbits

摘要

Solar array configuration design and analysis techniques are developed from basic solar cell performance characteristics. The relationship between the array and other elements in the power system is presented with emphasis on nickel-cadmium battery characteristics as they relate to the design of the array. The predictable solar orientation patterns for two and three axis vertically stabilized spacecraft are examined in detail. The influence of the orbit upon the design of the array and methods for predicting sunlight exposure time and integrated average array power are introduced. The effects of the orbit environment upon array performance including variations in solar illumination intensity, degradation caused by particle irradiation, and the potential influence of earth albedo are discussed. Finally, a specific array design is undertaken for a vertically stabilized spacecraft with a constant 20-watt electrical load. The design, although specific, demonstrates solar-array design principles and techniques that are universally applicable. (Author)