Skip to content
AsteriaStar
Component

Solar Array

Panels of photovoltaic cells that convert sunlight into electricity — the primary power source for most spacecraft in the inner Solar System. Beyond Jupiter, sunlight becomes too weak and other sources are needed.

Part of Electrical Power

Highlights

  • ›The workhorse power source of the inner Solar System

Knowledge connections

Sources

The primary and reference sources this topic draws on.

  • NASANational Aeronautics and Space Administration

    Mission data, planetary science, space telescopes, and public-domain imagery.

    Most NASA-produced imagery is in the public domain; individual items are checked for usage terms before publication.