Review of terrestrial and space effects on reflective surfaces and dielectrics

The important effects of the atmosphere and space environment on the degradation of reflective surfaces and dielectrics are reviewed in this paper. It is becoming clear that the successful design of these systems includes an understanding of the environmental interactions, especially surface contamination effects. For reflective surfaces, both data and theoretical concepts applicable to both terrestrial solar energy systems (i.e., photovoltaics and concentrators) and optical reflectors for use on the Space Shuttle or the Space Station are given. The terrestrial effects include degradation due to soiling on glass surfaces, and their changes with time. The space effects include the theoretical ultraviolet enhancement of contamination, possible surface interactions due to solar radiation, debris impacts, and atomic oxygen. Concerning dielectrics, analogous effects can occur in both environments. A summary of space radiation interactions with dielectrics is emphasized.