A Low Cost Tailorable Power Source for Microsatellites

A miniature solar panel fabricated from a single or multiple crystalline cells is described. It permits utilization of irregular and curved spacecraft surfaces for generating power. Modular treatments are described that enhance performance and provide improved response to environments. The low cost fabrication methods enable use of a variety of off-the-shelf cell types including silicon, gallium arsenide (gridded back), gallium arsenide on germanium. It also provides for using the panels in tandem when more power is required from the same area. System benefits of the microarray include: Maximum power/energy from small spacecraft areas; Minimum impact of shadows on available power; Tailorable voltage for optimum performance matching with power subsystem components, particularly batteries; and the possibility of remote power sources on appendages with elimination of power cable for weight and signal interference reduction.