Space radiation environment of ALSAT-2 and its degradation effect on InGaP/InGaAs/Ge solar cells

Abstract

Surrounding the earth, and throughout outer space, significant levels of radiation particles exist. These particles include protons, electrons, heavy ions, and other forms of radiation. Different regions are known to contain different amounts of various types of particles with different energies, all having different effects on electronic devices. Therefore, when designing a space-based system, it is important to understand the environment in which the electronic system will operate and the radiation hazards that can be expected. In this paper we present an analysis of the radiation environment for the ALSAT-2 Algerian satellite that was launched in 2010, using Space ENVironment Information System (SPENVIS). The impact of the radiation on InGaP/InGaAs/Ge Emcore ATJ solar cells is investigated by calculating the degradation. Finally, the End of Life (EOL) performance of the solar cells is predicted.