scope:

This document establishes qualification and quality requirements for crystalline silicon and gallium arsenide-based single and multiple junction solar cell types for space applications. This includes requirements for solar cell manufacturer quality systems and for characterization of solar cells. Requirements for acceptance testing of lots are not defined in the current version of this document.

Qualification is required when introducing a new solar cell design. Delta qualification is required when making modifications to the materials and processes used to manufacture a qualified cell. If the materials and process changes are limited, these may be considered and evaluated for the scope of a delta qualification. The delta qualification must be based on how the changes might affect the performance and reliability of the cell. The justification for the delta qualification and a detailed description of the changes must be documented per section 11.5, Delta Qualification Report. A change to the lateral dimensions of a qualified cell type does not require delta qualification or re-qualification.