by Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO, has made a groundbreaking advancement in the realm of solar cell technology with the successful launch of state-of-the-art printed flexible solar cells into space. This milestone was achieved today, on March 5, as the technology was sent aboard Australia’s largest private satellite, Optimus-1, on Space X’s Transporter-10 mission. The development of these cutting-edge solar cells is part of CSIRO’s collaboration with the Australian space transportation provider, Space Machines Company, to explore the potential of printed flexible solar cells as a reliable energy source for future space missions.
Dr. Kimberley Clayfield, the CSIRO Space Program Director, emphasized the importance of lightweight, high-efficiency power systems in spacecraft development. The printed flexible solar cells developed by CSIRO offer a promising solution to this challenge, providing a lightweight and reliable energy source that could revolutionize space operations and exploration. Dr. Clayfield expressed confidence in the technology, stating that if the space flight test confirms the performance observed in the lab, the printed flexible solar cells would offer significant advantages over traditional silicon-based solar cells.
Dr. Anthony Chesman, the CSIRO Renewable Energy Systems Group Leader, shared details about the technology used in the printed flexible solar cells. The cells are made using perovskite, an advanced material known for its high efficiency in converting sunlight into energy. Dr. Chesman highlighted the success of perovskite cells on Earth and expressed excitement about their potential performance in space.
Rajat Kulshrestha, the CEO of Space Machines Company, lauded the collaboration with CSIRO and the successful integration of the innovative solar cell technology into the Optimus-1 satellite. He described the achievement as a significant milestone for the company and emphasized the transformative impact the flexible solar cells could have on spacecraft power systems.
Dr. Chesman discussed the in situ testing that will be conducted to gather information on the performance of the perovskite cells in space. The data collected during the space mission will provide valuable insights into the technology’s practical application and pave the way for future advancements. Dr. Chesman expressed confidence in the durability and efficiency of the printed flexible solar cells, even under extreme conditions in space.
Furthermore, Dr. Chesman highlighted the potential for Australian manufacturing to benefit from the solar technology developed by CSIRO. The opportunity to contribute to global space exploration through innovative technology presents a promising avenue for collaboration with potential partners.
The pioneering research and development of printed flexible solar cells by CSIRO mark a significant step forward in advancing renewable energy solutions for space missions. The successful integration of this groundbreaking technology into space opens up new possibilities for future space endeavors, showcasing the potential of Australian innovation on a global stage.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
