Predicting the solar probe plus solar array output

Predicting the output of the Solar Probe Plus (SPP) solar array presents unique challenges as the array operates at very high temperatures and irradiances, and has a water-cooled substrate. A further complication arises because, close to perihelion, each string operates at an irradiance and temperature different from the other strings. This paper provides the methodology and results for computing the output of the array over a range of irradiances from zero to seventy suns, temperatures from −80°C to 164°C, and angles of up to 70° between the array normal and the sun line.