Value chain · CLM-0200
In plain terms
A new solar cell design, tested only in computer models, is predicted to convert more than 25% of sunlight to electricity in orbit.
The claim as recorded
The ASTRAL ultra-thin tandem solar cell concept is modeled to reach a photovoltaic efficiency above 25% at 1 sun in a GEO orbit.
Scope and limits
This is a MODELED result, not a measured one. No ASTRAL device has been fabricated or tested; the claim establishes a simulated upper bound for this concept only, not an achieved efficiency for any flown or lab SBSP cell.
What it assumes
The detailed-balance model and the specific ASTRAL layer stack (100 nm GaAs / 180 nm InGaP tandem with a multifunctional front coating) hold as modeled; no fabrication tolerances are included.
Where it comes from
"Our model also reveals that ASTRAL can reach photovoltaic efficiencies exceeding 25% at 1 sun, competitive against state-of-the-art InGaP/GaAs tandems" (SRC-003, PDF page 9).
Basis: photovoltaic efficiency at 1 sun (AM0), GEO orbit, calculated by a detailed-balance model
Related records
- Answers question
- QST-002 not published in this release
Cite this
energyaperture.com/c/clm-0200
CLM-0200, Energy Aperture, as of 2025.
Connected records
Other published records linked to this one. A list, not a judgement.
- Also from SRC-003
- CLM-0202In simulation, this new cell design can produce a strong 1 kW per square metre of power while staying at a moderate 50 degrees C.CLM-0431This cell design might need over 30 times less shielding mass, from a coating 50 times thinner, than today's space solar cells, while still...CLM-0508An independent university research group has modelled a solar-cell design that could need over thirty times less protective shielding...