Space Photovoltaics

Historically, space utilization was limited to a few key applications such as telecommunications, weather monitoring, and navigation, resulting in relatively modest demand for spacecraft photovoltaics. Recent privatization of the space sector, however, has dramatically reduced launch costs—by a factor of ~23 over the past decade—and enabled ambitious initiatives such as mega satellite constellations (OneWeb, Starlink, and the European Union’s mega constellation), which plan to deploy over 100,000 satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO)—17 times the current global total.

This transformation creates a paradigm shift for space photovoltaics, moving from a high-cost, low-demand model to a low-cost, high-demand environment, demanding high-efficiency, lightweight, and reliable solar technologies.

Our group is at the forefront of this field, with a dedicated research program in space photovoltaics that leverages our expertise in perovskite and tandem solar cells. We focus on ultra-efficient multijunction perovskite-based tandems, engineered to perform under the extreme conditions of space, including high radiation flux, large temperature swings, and vacuum.

Our laboratory infrastructure is uniquely suited for this work: we possess state-of-the-art facilities for thin-film deposition, encapsulation, and device characterization, along with specialized equipment for accelerated space-relevant stress testing, such as radiation (national facilities), thermal cycling, and high-vacuum measurements. This enables us to systematically bridge the gap between laboratory-scale efficiency and robust performance in real space conditions.

Supported by a prestigious ERC Starting Grant, our research program aims to demonstrate space-ready tandem solar cells with unprecedented efficiency and stability. The outcomes of this work will not only advance the capabilities of next-generation satellites but also provide critical technological foundations for sustainable space infrastructure, renewable energy applications beyond Earth, and other emerging space technologies that will benefit humankind in the coming decades.