Key facts of the Solar Generator laboratory

1. Provides services to ESA and External Satellite Projects by means of electrical characterization of solar generator samples (e.g.: full solar array, panels, coupons and solar cells) with Pulsed/Continuous solar simulators and spectral response, before and after environmental/mechanical tests.

2. Participates in projects qualification and advance technology programmes by means of solar generator cells and coupons and space materials fast deep thermal cycles test (ATC-3 & ATC-5 Accelerated thermal cycling facilities).

3. Improve confidence in PVA products by long duration or destructive tests.

4. Overcome “bottle necks” during solar array devices qualification.

5. Supports development or failure investigation requiring detailed characterization of solar cells.