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This device was used to test solar panels of communications satellites prior to launch. Solar panels are a crucial component of a communications satellite, essential to providing the spacecraft with sufficient power continuously over a period of years. Testing the panels prior to launch ensured that they performed as required once in space.

The test fixture holds a series of standard light sockets and bulbs. For a test, the fixture would be positioned near a satellite's solar panels. Additional test equipment would then assess if the solar panels, each covered with numerous individual solar cells, converted light energy into electrical energy according to expected performance criteria.

Lockheed Martin donated this artifact to the Museum in 1998.

 Display Status

This object is not on display at the National Air and Space Museum. It is either on loan or in storage.
Object Details
Country of Origin United States of America Type EQUIPMENT-Test Manufacturer Radio Corporation of America
 Dimensions 3-D: 367 × 147.3 × 245.1cm (12 ft. 1/2 in. × 58 in. × 96 1/2 in.)
Storage: 367 × 147.3 × 264.2cm (12 ft. 1/2 in. × 58 in. × 104 in.)
 Materials Aluminum
Aluminized Mylar
Ceramic
Adhesive
Plastic
Copper Alloy
Stainless Steel
 Inventory Number A19980296000 Credit Line Gift of Lockheed Martin Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
For more information, visit the Smithsonians Terms of Use.