pvsatT

pvsatT is a modular testbed and data framework designed to evaluate photovoltaic arrays for satellite applications under simulated space conditions. The system supports standardized test sequences to characterize electrical performance, spectral response, and degradation mechanisms of solar cells and arrays, enabling rapid comparison across technologies and configurations.

The concept originated as part of broader efforts to shorten qualification timelines for small and medium satellite programs. pvsatT combines laboratory hardware with software tools to reproduce key space environments, including vacuum, thermal cycling, and radiation exposure, while capturing detailed electrical measurements. Its modular design allows researchers to swap cells, panels, or subassemblies and to tailor test sequences to particular mission profiles.

Core components include a solar simulator with adjustable spectral output, a thermal vacuum chamber, a radiation source or dosimetry setup, and a programmable electrical load and data acquisition system. A unified control software stack manages test planning, real-time monitoring, and post-test analysis, generating outputs such as I-V and P-V curves, efficiency metrics, spectral response data, and degradation trends over dose and temperature cycles.

Typical applications cover technology development, reliability assessment, and comparative studies of different photovoltaic technologies and configurations for satellites. While pvsatT provides rigorous laboratory insight, it is not a flight qualification facility; results require correlation with in-flight data and environmental models. Ongoing work focuses on expanding modular interfaces, improving calibration procedures, and aligning test protocols with emerging space mission standards.