Abstract: An interconnect for connecting first and second solar cells comprises a base portion having a first distal section and a first intermediate section, with the first distal and intermediate sections being integral with the base portion and capable of fixture to the first solar cell. An extension tab is integral to the first distal section, with the extension tab being capable of fixture to a front side of the second solar cell. A diode tab is integral to the first intermediate section, with the diode tab being capable of fixture to a diode side of the second solar cell, such diode side being on a side opposite to the front side. Solar panels comprising solar cells interconnected with such interconnects are suitable for both terrestrial and non-terrestrial applications.

Abstract: An improved method of detecting and removing a shunt from a photoelectric semiconductor device comprises the steps of characterizing the device by generated data or performance graph; forward biasing the device; producing electromagnetic radiation from the device; receiving the radiation; associating a contrast in radiation to the defect; and mechanically removing the defect, whereby the defect is removed in the absence of a step of applying a chemical to the defect to assist in removing the defect.