Final qualification test results of XTJ triple junction space solar cell to AIAA - S-111 - 2005 and Spectrolab test standards

Spectrolab successfully completed the qualification of its latest and final triple junction space solar cell, 30% class XTJ (neXt Triple Junction), per AIAA S-111-2005 and Spectrolab test standards. The final qualification and characterization test results are presented in this paper. XTJ exhibits a 4.2 % power gain over Spectrolab´s current space PV, UTJ, at both beginning of life and end of life. Moreover, nearly 3% lower solar absorptance of XTJ allows for a cooler operating temperature in a typical GEO mission. XTJ showed excellent front and backside welding contact integrities, insensitivity to ESDS, and negligible loss from humidity and GEO thermal cycle tests. Currently Spectrolab´s large area XTJ (59.65cm²) is undergoing qualification per Spectrolab specified test standards.