Arc rate measurements observed by the photovoltaic array space power plus diagnostics (PASP plus) experiment

This paper presents results from the Photovoltaic Array Space Power Plus Diagnostics (PASP Plus) experiment flown on board the Advanced Photovoltaic and Electronics Experiments (APEX) satellite. Ten solar arrays encompassing a wide range of solar cell material and manufacturing techniques were operated at bias levels ranging from -75 V to -500 V. Comparisons in are rate between solar arrays are made as well as correlations of arc rate versus bias voltage, electron density, array temperature, and ram/wake angle.