Modeling and simulation of the electrical characteristics of the space satellite prototype UCACUETEL based on the ecuadorian experience PEGASO

This article presents the analysis, modeling and simulation of a solar energy supply system for the space satellite UCACUETEL. UCACUETEL is in a prototyping phase and it is expected to be launched in the near future as a satellite of the Catholic University of Cuenca in Ecuador with the support of researchers from the National University of San Agustín of Arequipa. In this stage, special emphasis is placed on the supply of electrical energy to the satellite. We model and simulate the energetic behavior using solar panels with triple junction cells, aiming to guarantee its operation over time contemplating that there will be a deterioration as time pass by. The development of space systems is applicable in many fields of knowledge and can be very useful for future developments at the Catholic University of Cuenca. Solar panels used correctly are the only non-nuclear means of energy generation that allow satellites in orbit to be fed continuously. In addition, we perform efficiency comparisons between the mathematical model used and the measurements made with the solar panel to determine the best option of the solar cell that will bring an overall good performance of the satellite.