Photovoltaic operation in the lower atmosphere and at the surface of Venus

Abstract

Low-intensity high-temperature (LIHT) solar cells are needed for extended photovoltaic power generation in both the lower atmosphere as well as at the surface of Venus. Double-junction GaInP/GaAs solar cells that may be able to operate and survive, with suitable encapsulation, for several weeks on the 465°C Venus surface have been developed. These solar cells have been optimized for operation under the Venus solar spectrum, which is different from that of the Earth.