A flexible solar simulator has been developed for use in renewable energy instruction laboratory. The system consists of a light source mounted on a linear actuator that approximates the luminous intensity and spectrum of the sun, and a detachable measurement unit for measuring IV characteristics of solar panels under the lighting. The system provides information about the module temperatures and incident light intensity during the current and voltage measurement process. The detachable measurement unit can also be used outdoors for characterizing solar modules under direct sunlight conditions.