Electrostatic Charging of Mirrors in Space: A Plausible Cause of Solar Panel Anomalies on Satellites

摘要: Abstract : The entire fleet of Boeing Model 702 geosynchronous satellites has suffered from a similar fate: degradation the solar cell panels. Minors flank both sides Degradation sometimes sudden and stepwise, shortens lifetime cells. We suggest that space environment effects play an important role in damaging As cornerstone this idea, we expound theorem high reflectivity reduces photoemission. With little or no photoemission, mirrors often charge to minus kilovolts eclipse as well sunlight, whenever plasma is hot enough. Since rest panel does not have mirror property, differential charging between occurs during exits. show data obtained exit on LANL-97A satellite for supporting idea charging. Finally, recommend property be taken account future designs commercial products spacecraft computer codes.