Actually, before we extend the panels we do have do have solar cells on 3 out of 6 faces of the satellite - which should allow us to make sure our attitude control is working as expected.

We need to deploy the panels to maximize the solar collection area and thus power for the payloads. And there simply isn't enough space on the other panels to put "backup solar cells" :)

Some pictures and more info about the mission here: https://www.tu.berlin/en/about/profile/press-releases-news/n...