As the world leader in the production of epitaxial lift-off (ELO) inverted metamorphic (IMM) solar cells, MicroLink Devices proposes to develop large-area ELO-IMM solar cell designed specifically for low intensity, low temperature (LILT) space applications. These solar cells will achieve 45% power conversion efficiency (at –125°C and 5.2 AU) with high production yields, enabling substantial solar array costs for future NASA outer planetary space missions.
The proposed LILT ELO-IMM solar cells will benefit future NASA missions to the outer solar system where solar cells will operate under LILT conditions. These solar cells will enable substantial solar array cost reductions making them especially suitable for large-scale SEP (solar electric propulsion) spacecrafts operating in LILT conditions.
Manufacturers of commercial satellites and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are interested in MicroLink’s low mass and power dense ELO solar cell technology for the potential to reduce costs while improving the efficiency compared to commercially available Ge-based cells. Attractive military and civilian applications include the ability to recharge batteries in remote locations.