In-Situ IV Data Acquisition and Algorithm Development

The contract seeks the development of real-time IV curve tracing algorithms capable of accurately measuring and stabilizing solar cell performance in the harsh and dynamic environment of space. The solution must account for variable sun angles and extreme thermal fluctuations encountered in orbit, ensuring precise and continuous data acquisition without reliance on ground-based calibration. The algorithms need to be robust, lightweight, and integrated into onboard systems to enable autonomous solar array health monitoring and performance optimization during mission operations. The work is structured as a subcontract under NASA’s Shared Services Center with a NAICS code of 541715, indicating it falls under scientific research and development services. Proposals are due by August 4, 2026, and performance is expected to support NASA’s mission-critical space assets by providing reliable, in-situ solar power data that enhances mission longevity and efficiency. The technical challenge requires advanced signal processing, adaptive control methods, and thermal compensation techniques to deliver high-fidelity IV characteristics under non-ideal space conditions, making it essential for next-generation solar power systems in deep space and low Earth orbit applications.