What is it for?

One of three facilities making up ESA's combined Power Laboratory, the Solar Generator Laboratory supports next generation solar cell development and ensures that photovoltaic technology chosen for a given satellite will survive its mission environment.

Solar cells are a familiar element of satellites, arranged in solar arrays on wings extending from a spacecraft's body or draped around its hull. The vast majority of satellites rely on solar power because space offers an endless abundance of sunshine.

Otherwise known as photovoltaic cells, they are made from the same kind of semiconductor materials as integrated circuits, converting the energy of incoming light into an electric charge. Boosting the efficiency of this key technology serves to increase satellite functionality and bolster the competitiveness of Europe's space sector.

One of three facilities making up ESA's combined Power Laboratory, the Solar Generator Laboratory supports next generation solar cell development and ensures that photovoltaic technology chosen for a given satellite will survive its mission environment.