INTEGRAL: Solar Array in-Orbit Performance Analysis and Power Prediction

This paper presents the in-orbit performance analysis and power prediction of the solar array of INTEGRAL, a spacecraft launched by the European Space Agency in 2002. The model used to predict the performance of the solar array takes into account the different degradation factors, including UV and particles radiation, which are particularly important due to the specific orbit and long mission duration. The analysis has been performed using PEPS, a tool available in ESA to simulate the complete power subsystem and based on EcosimPro. The study includes an assessment of the degradation of the solar array and different predictions of its performance consid-ering the long-serving time and the evolution of the operational point in the IV curve. The results of the study indicate that the solar array will provide sufficient power until the satellite's decommissioning in early 2029, even in the worst case scenario.