Energy Extraction Using Thermoelectric Generator from Solar Array Arcing in Space Applications

Abstract

Solar array arcing due to spacecraft charging results in an efficiency loss of solar arrays installed in satellites. In this paper, energy extraction potential from a primary arc up to 0.2 A of 4 µs duration initiated at a triple junction has been investigated using a thermoelectric generator module. The temperature of the primary arc is calculated to be 3901.70 K and considered as the hot end temperature of the module. A hybridized model of a unit thermoelectric generator module is analyzed using COMSOL Multiphysics 5.3a. Considering a cold end temperature of 325.45 K during the eclipse, the TEG yields a maximum output power of 64.74 mW for an arc current of 0.2 A at a single triple junction. Over its entire duration of 4 µs, the instantaneous power generated by a thermoelectric generator has been calculated. Finally, by employing this model on a typical geostationary satellite, e.g. WINDS GEO satellite, the total energy harvested is calculated to be 3.13 mJ for approximately 26774 arcs on its 8760 triple junctions over its lifespan of 11 years. Although the total harvested energy is not significant for geostationary satellites, this energy can be used in low power applications where frequent arcing occurs.