A satellite circling the earth has an average power consumption of 370.0 W. Assuming 5.4% efficiency for conversion of solar energy to electrical energy, what area is required for the solar panels?

Answer 1

The solar irradiance at the earth's distance is about H = 1366 W/m^2.

To generate 370 W of electricity with 5.4% efficiency, you need an area A such that:

1366 W/m^2*(0.054)*A = 370 Watts

Solve for A, in square meters. The panels will have to always face the sun