Calibration for Space Solar Cells: Progress, Prospects, and Challenges

Abstract

Space solar cells, have been providing a consistent supply of energy for various spacecraft for decades. Currently, the third‐generation solar cells, such as perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and organic solar cells, have demonstrated significant potential for space applications. However, their real performance in space environments is not yet clear. To assess crucial performance parameters, solar cells need to be calibrated under the standard space spectral irradiance before deployment in space. This is known as AM0 calibration. This review article focuses on the calibration techniques and methods for space solar cells. The topics covered include space environment and standard testing condition for solar cells, the measurements of key parameters for traditional solar cells, advancements in PSCs and organic solar cells for space applications, and a comprehensive review of diverse calibration methods. The discussion spans from near‐ground calibration to near‐space calibration and space calibration, encompassing approaches, key technologies, developmental milestones, and the respective merits of each calibration methods, especially focus on high altitude balloon calibration. Finally, the article addresses the challenges and future trends of space solar cell calibration based on the aforementioned discussions.