In-orbit Performance of Hughes HS601HP Dual Junction GaInP_2/GaA s/Ge Solar Arrays

摘要

Hughes Space and Communication Company's body-stabilized H5601 HP communications satellites represent the first commercial spacecraft to utilize dual junction Ga InP_2/GaA s/Ge solar cells as their primary power source. The in-orbit electrical performance of four of these spacecraft has been monitored and compared to ground-based predictions. The predictions employ the as-built solar array con-figuration and electrical performance, the actual in-orbit radiation environment, and additional predicted environmental factors. Hughes' manufacturing and prediction methodology has led to agreement between the average telemetered and predicted power of +-2 percent for these spacecraft.