CSIRO has successfully launched its printed flexible solar cell technology into space aboard Australia's largest private satellite, Optimus-1.
CSIRO is exploring the potential of printed flexible solar cells as a reliable power source for future space endeavours, in collaboration with Australian space transportation provider, Space Machines.
CSIRO Space Program Director Kimberly Clayfield said a key challenge in spacecraft development was low-mass, high-efficiency power systems.
“CSIRO’s printed flexible solar cells could provide a reliable, lightweight energy solution for future space operations and exploration,” Ms Clayfield said.
“If spaceflight testing reveals performance similar to what we demonstrated in the laboratory, this technology offers significant advantages over traditional silicon-based solar energy.
“Another example of CSIRO's ground-based expertise being applied to solve challenges in space.”
CSIROs Renewable Energy Systems Group Head Anthony Cheesman said eight small modules of Australian-made flexible printed solar cells from CSIROs had been attached to the surface of the Space Machine Company's Optimus-1 satellite.
“Researchers at CSIRO have worked for many years to improve the performance of our solar cells using perovskite, an advanced material that is highly efficient at converting sunlight into energy,” Cheesman said.
“Our perovskite cells have achieved amazing results on Earth, and we are excited that they will soon demonstrate their potential in space.”
Rajat Kulshrestha, CEO of Space Machines, said the completion of Optimus represents a major milestone for Space Machines.
“Through perseverance and teamwork, our engineers and scientists, along with partners like CSIRO, have created something truly groundbreaking,” Mr Kulshrestha said.
“CSIRO's innovative, flexible solar cells will transform spacecraft power systems and enable new capabilities for future space missions.
“We are thrilled to incorporate this groundbreaking technology into Optimus. This is just the beginning, and I'm excited to see what the future holds as we continue to innovate.”
Dr. Cheeseman said the on-site testing would provide information about the performance of the perovskite cells as they orbited the planet.
“We will get information about how the panels hold up under extreme conditions in space and data about the efficiency they achieve,” Cheesman said.
Mr Cheesman said the team had already conducted pioneering research into the potential performance of the cells in the space environment.
“Based on our research, we expect printed flexible solar cells to withstand the effects of cosmic electron and gamma radiation that can compromise the performance and safety of conventional solar cells,” Cheesman said.
“We are also confident that these cells will outperform conventional cells in situations where sunlight hits them at non-ideal angles.
“The feedback we receive from the satellite will provide valuable insights into the practical application of our technology and will help develop the technology in the future.”
Mr Cheeseman highlighted the unique opportunity that solar technology can provide for Australian manufacturing.
“This is a great opportunity for Australian technology to contribute to global space exploration. We are keen to collaborate with potential partners to explore this further,” Mr Cheesman said.
