Gold interconnectors for solar generators in low Earth orbits

Abstract

For low Earth orbit applications gold based electrical connections have keen developed consisting of 12.5 /spl mu/m thin gold solar cell interconnectors with stress relief loop, 50 /spl mu/m thick gold string terminations and gauge AWG 24 stranded gold wires. Modules with typical 4 cm by 6 cm silicon solar cells mounted on a lightweight carbon fibre reinforced honeycomb substrate were manufactured including the new components applied by resistance welding. A long duration thermal cycling test was started cycling two coupons at between -110/spl deg/C and +110/spl deg/C. As of November 1994, 27500 cycles have been completed, and the test is continuing. Evaluation of module integrity at periodic intervals yielded no measurable degradation up to date.