Solar Arrays
Solar arrays are devices that convert solar energy into electrical energy. In the context of space and astronautical engineering, solar arrays are used to power spacecraft and satellites. They consist of multiple solar cells that are connected together to form a panel. The solar cells are made of semiconductor materials, such as silicon, that absorb photons from the sun and release electrons, which are then collected by metal contacts on the cell. The electrical energy generated by the solar cells is then regulated and stored in batteries or used to power the spacecraft's systems directly. Solar arrays are a critical component of space missions, as they provide a reliable and renewable source of power for spacecraft that operate in the harsh environment of space.
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