New Experimental Heliostat Test Field in Sonora, Mexico
Abstract
A new facility known as Heliostat Test Field has been developed in northwest of Mexico (state of Sonora). With a clear atmosphere most of the year, Sonora is one of the best locations worldwide for its abundant solar resource. The new facility consists of a solar tower, a laboratory, and 16 heliostats. Three different optical tests have been implemented for the evaluation of heliostats at this installation: sun tracking test, reflected spot test, and deflectometry test. These tests allow the evaluation of tracking, and slope errors of the heliostats. In particular, the later provides detailed slope maps of the reflecting mirrors.