July 14, 2026
What is Solar Radiation Testing?
Solar radiation testing evaluates how products perform when exposed to prolonged sunlight, heat, and UV radiation. By combining controlled thermal heat loads with specific ultraviolet (UV), visible, and infrared light spectrums, laboratory solar simulation reproduces years of outdoor weathering in just days or weeks.
Unlike standard temperature-only tests, solar radiation testing simulates both photochemical effects (UV degradation, fading, brittleness) and thermal effects (heat buildup, warping, expansion).
By capturing both stress factors at once, manufacturers can assess product durability, identify potential design weaknesses, and verify performance before products are exposed to real-world outdoor conditions.
Why is Solar Radiation Testing Important?
Solar radiation testing recreates the effects of sunlight in a controlled laboratory environment by exposing products to carefully defined levels of light and heat. Test profiles can be customized to match specific product requirements, including irradiance (light intensity), temperature, cycling, and exposure duration. By simulating years of outdoor conditions, manufacturers can evaluate how their products will withstand long-term sun exposure and identify potential issues early in the design process.
What Products Benefit from Solar Radiation Testing?
Any product intended for outdoor deployment, high-altitude operations, or exposure to sunlight through window glass requires solar qualification.
Common Applications
- Digital displays and signage
- Outdoor electronics
- Transportation equipment
- Military and defense systems
- Aerospace components
- Renewable energy equipment
- Enclosures and housings
- Plastics, coatings, and adhesives
Testing can reveal problems such as fading, discoloration, material degradation, cracking, adhesive failure, or overheating before products are deployed.
Elite’s Solar Radiation Testing Capabilities
Elite Electronic Engineering’s solar radiation testing capabilities are backed by experienced engineers and a full suite of environmental testing services. By offering multiple environmental tests on one campus, we help customers simplify project coordination and streamline product qualification.
Whether you need to meet MIL-STD-810 military specs or custom commercial standards, our team delivers reliable data tailored to your design requirements.
Contact Elite for Solar Radiation Testing
Need to verify your product can withstand years of outdoor exposure? Contact Elite Electronic Engineering to learn how our custom solar radiation testing capabilities can support your next project.