Besides lower weight and increased power, the technique is low cost and reliable. The system has a minimum of complex parts and stows efficiently. Most importantly, both concept and materials have been proven in space. Similar inflatable structures in the forms of both targets and decoys are routinely launched and deployed, and the space deployment of an inflatable antenna is imminent. Lifetimes of three to five years are standard.
Longer missions are possible with further development.
A schematic of the four different types of solar cells used in this study is shown in Figure 1. For simplicity only the basic elements of active volume, A, and substrate, B, are included. Cover glasses, metallization patterns and other fabrication features are not detailed. To lower weight, the Ge may be chemically or mechanically milled. The thickness of the cells used in this study is 3.5 mils.