Simulation of Low-Intensity, Low-Temperature Solar Arrays with Software and Hardware Tools

In this work we discuss issues related to the simulation of low power systems with hardware means. Simulating low power systems is a challenging task as the possible low-intensity, low-temperature environment, together with possible dust deposition and ice condensation, worsen not only the production of power but also make it difficult to predict it. To overcome these problems, we have developed solutions in terms of software and hardware tools for power estimation and simulation. The developed low power, hardware solar array simulator system is briefly discussed in this paper. Although this solution is reported for the case of Rosetta lander Philae, it applies also to possible low power future missions aimed to perform in-situ operations on comets and asteroids.