Solar radiation on mars: Tracking photovoltaic array

A photovoltaic power source for surface-based operation on Mars can offer many advantages. Detailed information on solar radiation characteristics on Mars and the insolation on various types of collector surfaces are necessary for effective design of future planned photovoltaic systems. In this article we present analytical expressions for solar radiation calculation and solar radiation data for single-axis (of various types) and two-axis tracking surfaces and compare the insolation to horizontal and inclined surfaces. For clear skies (low atmospheric dust load) tracking surfaces result in higher insolation than stationary surfaces, whereas for highly dusty atmospheres, the difference is small. The insolation on the different types of stationary and tracking surfaces depends on latitude, season, optical depth of the atmosphere, and the duration of system operation. These insolations have to be compared for each planned mission.