Sine-limiting microcell solar concentrators for space

Microcell concentrating photovoltaics (µCPV) have the potential to improve performance and reduce the cost of solar power in space. Here, we introduce an ultracompact V-cone tailored edge ray (V-TERC) concentrator, rooted in nonimaging optics, which enables operation near the sine limit. Relative to previous space µCPV implementations, this concentrator design enables an approximate four-fold increase in concentration ratio for a given acceptance angle and specific power. We validate the design through ray tracing simulations and construction of a proof-of-concept system that consists of a 650 × 650 µm2 triple-junction microcell bonded to a 3.1 mm-thick prototype V-TERC optic. In outdoor testing on a sunny day, the system achieves a power conversion efficiency of 30% at a geometric gain of 137× with a specific power of 90 W kg-1 and an acceptance angle of ±4.5°. This is a record combination for µCPV to date and represents an important step toward increasing efficiency and lowering the cost of solar power in space.