How to Simulate the Behavior of Solar Arrays in Space
Reducing risk with a purpose-built power supply for solar array simulation
Many operational factors affect the current-voltage characteristic curve (I-V curve) of a solar array panel output in space. These factors include irradiation level, temperature, eclipse, and shadow. When selecting a power supply to emulate the behavior of photovoltaics in these conditions, there are three critical factors to consider — output capacitance, solar output flexibility, and protection for the device under test (DUT). Solar panels are current sources. Consequently, the power supply must have low-output capacitance and high-output impedance to mimic this behavior.
In addition, solar array panels have exponentially shaped I-V curves, and the power supply must also mimic this behavior. The power supply must be able to adjust these curves rapidly to emulate changing conditions in space. Finally, because of the delicate nature of satellites, the power supplies used in ground testing must provide a greater level of protection than is typically available in conventional power supplies. Basic power supply capabilities are insufficient to limit transient current spikes or protect internal components against power dissipation.
Solar array simulation solution
Solar array simulation requires a power supply that can rapidly adjust to mimic various conditions in space. The Keysight Solar Array Simulator (SAS) 2U, 6 kW solution supports fast I-V curve changes and quick recovery times to accomplish this feature.
The primary design for this solution was as a current source with extremely low output capacitance to behave like a solar panel. Finally, the design for the SAS solution has extra layers of DUT protection, including programmable soft limits, gross current limiting, over-switching protection, and more.
See demo of solar array simulator
Explore products in our solar array simulation solution
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MP4301A Modular Power System 6 kW Mainframe, 200/208 VAC
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![MP4362A Solar Array Simulator Module 0-130 V, 0-8 A, 1 kW]()
MP4362A Solar Array Simulator Module 0-130 V, 0-8 A, 1 kW
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![MP4361A Solar Array Simulator Auto-Ranging Module 0-160 V, 0-10 A, 1 kW]()
MP4361A Solar Array Simulator Auto-Ranging Module 0-160 V, 0-10 A, 1 kW
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