The Italian activities on GaAs solar cells for space applications: Achieved results and future programmes
Svelto, F. ; Flores, C. ; Caon, A. ; et al.
Sep - 1994
ISSN : 09270248 ;
journal : Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells
Issue : null
type: Article Journal
Abstract
This paper presents a survey of the developed programme and the achieved results in Italy under the aegis of ASI, directly or in harmonization with ESA, in the field of GaAs solar cell technology for space applications. The first phase of the programme was devoted to the achievement of a production capacity for GaAs solar arrays based on LPE process. All the technologies have been validated with severe on-ground testing and in-flight demonstrations. In parallel with the industrialization of LPE process based cells, an activity started for the development of cells grown by MOCVD process on Germanium substrates. A very significant experience was acquired with the experiment named ASGA onboard the platform EURECA.
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