Recent Advances in Microcell Concentrating Photovoltaics for Space
- Resource Type
- Conference
- Authors
- Ruud, C.J.; Fisher, B.; Gordon, J.M.; Giebink, N.C.
- Source
- 2019 IEEE 46th Photovoltaic Specialists Conference (PVSC) Photovoltaic Specialists Conference (PVSC), 2019 IEEE 46th. 2:1-3 Jun, 2019
- Subject
- Components, Circuits, Devices and Systems
Power, Energy and Industry Applications
Prototypes
Optical reflection
Optical device fabrication
Photovoltaic systems
Microcell networks
concentrating photovoltaics
CPV
microcells
optics
space
- Language
Microscale concentrating photovoltaics can improve the efficiency and reduce the cost of photovoltaic power in space. We report progress on a lightweight, monolithic, and ultrathin reflective concentrator for space based on triple-junction transfer printed microscale photovoltaic cells. The ~1 mm-thick first-generation prototype validates optical modeling and delivers 24% efficiency with a ± 9° acceptance angle. These results provide the foundation for a second-generation prototype based on an optimal paraboloidal reflector that is predicted to achieve a specific power >350 W/kg over an acceptance angle of ± 7°.