Computer Science – Performance
Scientific paper
Jan 2002
adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2002iaf..confe.748b&link_type=abstract
IAF abstracts, 34th COSPAR Scientific Assembly, The Second World Space Congress, held 10-19 October, 2002 in Houston, TX, USA.,
Computer Science
Performance
Scientific paper
The Stretched Lens Array (SLA) has been proposed as an integral part of the POWOW concept for an electrically propelled spacecraft traveling to Mars and using lasers to beam power to the surface. Significant advances in the design of the (SLA) have recently been accomplished. These advances include thinner lenses, more efficient cells, stiffer, lighter array structures, higher operating voltages, plus demonstration of a subscale model of the array concept. These advances will be described. The SLA has continued to evolve into a cost-effective, high specific power and high power density array and this array is applicable to a wide range of commercial, civil and other applications. This broad applicability stems in part because POWOW was a modular design using solar array building blocks in the 8 kW size. The integration of solar energy conversion in space with laser power transmission of that energy allows the use of photovoltaic receivers on the surface as well. Concentrator arrays built on the same concept as the SLA have been demonstrated on earth for some time. It is important to note that DoE tests over several years have shown the superior performance of this type of array. The results of these terrestrial tests will be described as well. Because the most likely location for a power beaming satellite is in a synchronous orbit (GEO for Earth), concentrator arrays appear well suited as the receivers for laser beams from those satellites. The ability to control operating temperature with appropriate design and to reduce the amount of more expensive solar cell material seems to be a cost-effective solution. Thus the adaptation of the linear Fresnel concentrators for this application is worthy of examination. The third issue that is critical for successful power conversion is selection of the laser wavelength/solar cell combination to maximize efficiency. Selection of the cell type involves several issues: laser wavelength, band gap (direct or indirect), operating conditions, cost, and materials availability. Laser issues include wavelength (expected to be in the 0.8 to 1.1 micron range), device lifetime and efficiency, atmospheric transmission, optical efficiency, cost etc. Because lasers are single wavelength devices, multiple junction solar cells are not needed. Single junction cells that cover the anticipated laser wavelength range include silicon, gallium arsenide and indium phosphide as well as some possible III-V alloys. The results of these tradeoffs will be presented.
Brandhorst Henry W.
O'Neill Mark J.
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