Space power generation solar cells

Solar cells (photovoltaic cells) convert simlight to electricity. Photovoltaic cells are made of semiconductor materials such as silicon and gallium arsenide. When light strikes the cell, photons are absorbed within the semiconductor and create electron-hole pairs that move within the cell. This generates the energy that is used to power space vehicles. 

Solar cells generate electricity in the sunshine but not in the dark. Thus space stations and spacecraft nui on power from batteries during dark periods. As of Jtme 2003, solar power has been practical for spacecraft operating no farther from the Stm than the orbit ofMars. For example, Magellan, Mars Global Surveyor, Mars Observer, and the Earth-orbiting Hubble Space Telescope operate on solar power. 

As strange as it may seem, modern biochemistry has shown that the cell is operated by machines—literally, molecular machines. Like their man-made counterparts (such as mousetraps, bicycles, and space shuttles), molecular machines range from the simple to the enormously complex mechanical, force-generating machines, like those in muscles electronic machines, like those in nerves and solar-powered machines, like those of photosynthesis. Of course, molecular machines are made primarily of proteins, not metal and plastic. In this chapter I will discuss molecular machines that allow cells to swim, and you will see what is required for them to do so. 

We can combine one or more arrays with batteries to store the electricity generated by the photovoltaic cells. We use photovoltaic to power emergency phones along highways, satellites, the international space station, private houses, and even solar cars. 

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