Diagnostics of Electrostatic Discharges and Potulations for Arc Mitigation Techniques on Satellite Solar Panels

Abstract

ABSTRACT newlineOn-orbit measurements claim the presence of low density plasma in Lower newlineEarth Orbit (LEO) and high energy electron clouds in Geo-synchronous Earth Orbit newline(GEO). Reportedly observed failures in various satellite components operating at higher newlinevoltage values are serious issues for Space communities. The maximum value of newlinepower generated by the solar panel is dependent on the type and configuration of newlinesolar cells laid on it. Charged species in space are responsible for building up static newlinevoltages on external satellite components at different potentials based on their dielectric newlineproperties. Proximity between two charged surfaces at different potentials results into newlinean electrostatic discharge (ESD) or arc. An arc is defined as rapid displacement of newlinecharge either by punch-through effect, flashover propagation or release of blow-off newlinecurrent between surfaces and surrounding environment (nanosecond to microsecond). newlineArc signals are similar to transient current responses with rise time between micro newlineto nanoseconds. According to a survey conducted by Frost and Sullivan, 33 % newlineof satellites fail in their operations due to multiple arcs on satellite solar panels. newlineRegions of intersection between metal (interconnect) - insulator (coverglass), metal - newlinesemiconductors (PN layers of solar cells) or insulator - semiconductor and vacuum are newlinemost probable locations for ignition of arc. These points are referred as triple junctions. newlineA primary arc (PA) on solar cells, which dissipates the charge stored on the insulating newlinesurface in the surrounding medium affects its electrical output. If an arc gains energy newlinefrom neighbouring solar cells, it is termed as sustained arc. Long duration sustained newlinearcs termed as permanently sustained arcs (PSAs) are most destructive for the solar newlinepanels. These arcs burn entire surrounding region due to high amount of heat released newlineduring the process. newlinePhysical damages like shorting of PN junctions on the solar cell, cracks on the newlinecoverglass surface and breaking of reverse diodes are observed due to discharges. newlinei newline