Solar electric power which was first used for satellites in space (Vanguard 1, 1958) has now become a cheap, light and robust source for mobile electricity.
Source: Wikipedia: Hydrargyrum
Beginning with a solar charger for my electric unicycle I have developed a versatile kit for mobile solar electric power.
Solar Cells
2 * 18V 5.5W 31.5 x 16.5 x 0.15CM Semi-Flexible Solar Panel With Cables
remove cigarette lighter adapter
replace crocodile clips with JST SM connector
join panels and cables using transparent tape
Connectors
JST SM connectors are light and reliable.
Simple Y-connectors provide flexibility for any number of
solar panels and electrical consumers to be connected.
60pcs JST Waterproof Connector Wire LED Light Strips 2Pin Connector Cable Lamp
Power Metering
PZEM-031: low power consumption, excellent readability in the sun
20A DC Digital Multifunction Power Meter Energy Monitor Module Voltmeter Ammeter 6.5V-100V
OLED: max. 20V or external power
100V 10A DC Combo Meter Volt Amp Power Watt Capacity Panel Meter Monitor for Oled
USB / Mobile Phone
LM2596 DC-DC Step-Down Converter
Voltage: 5V
Current: 2000mA
F959 Model Plane
MPPT Step-Down
Voltage: 10V
Current: 800mA
Battery: 7.4V 300mAh
WLtoys F959 Sky King 2.4G 3CH 750mm Wingspan RC Airplane With Led RTF
MPPT Solar Panel Controller 5A DC-DC Step-down CC/CV Charging Module Display LED
Electric Unicycle
4 * 18V 5.5W 31.5 x 16.5 x 0.15CM Semi-Flexible Solar Panel With Cables
Voltage: 72V solar / 67.2V unicycle
Current: 300mA
Power: 22W
Additional panels can be added using JST Y-Cables.
Space-Worthiness
Mars is getting 43% less solar irradiance than Earth. Reflective surfaces of metalized mylar provide a cheap way to compensate and concentrate light on the solar panels.
Credit: Wikipedia / Eric Machmer
