Sun Simulator

Sun Simulator (or Solar Simulator) is a device that replicates the characteristics of natural sunlight in a controlled laboratory environment. It provides artificial illumination with a spectrum, intensity, and spatial uniformity similar to sunlight, enabling reliable and repeatable testing and research without dependence on weather or time of day.

Key Performance Parameters (IEC 60904-9 Standard)

Sun simulators are classified based on three critical criteria:

1. Spectral Match:

   • Measures how closely the simulator's output spectrum matches the reference solar spectrum (e.g., AM1.5G for terrestrial applications or AM0 for space).
   • Evaluated in three wavelength ranges: 400–500 nm, 500–600 nm, and 600–700 nm.
   • Class A: 0.75–1.25 (best match)
   • Class B: 0.60–1.40
   • Class C: <0.60 or >1.40

2. Spatial Uniformity:

   • Measures the consistency of irradiance across the test area.
   • Class A: ≤±2% variation
   • Class B: ≤±5%
   • Class C: ≤±10%

3. Temporal Stability:

   • Measures how stable the light output remains over time during a test.
   • Class A: ≤±2% variation
   • Class B: ≤±5%
   • Class C: ≤±10%

A Class AAA simulator meets Class A criteria for all three parameters and is required for high-accuracy applications like photovoltaic certification.