With junction box or not?
A junction box is a compact enclosure that houses the electrical components of a solar panel and protects them from the environment. It’s usually pre-installed on the back of the solar module and acts as the nerve center of the solar PV system.

The junction box has the following functions:
Connection point: Serves as the connection point for the individual solar cells within the panel
Protection: Protects the cells from damage and keeps power flowing in one direction
Weatherproofing: Helps to weatherproof the panel
Connection: Allows for the easy connection of multiple solar panels in a solar array