Solar cells for satellites – research & development at ISC Konstanz
The first solar cells were developed in the 1950s specifically for space applications. Today, almost all satellites are powered by solar energy. More satellites have been launched into space in the last five years than in the 70 years before. The future of space travel is increasingly being shaped by private companies and the market for space-based applications is growing rapidly. According to forecasts by the BDI, it will grow by 7.4% annually to 1.25 trillion euros by 2040.
Until now, space applications have been dominated by the expensive gallium arsenide (GaAs) technology. However, crystalline silicon (c-Si) is increasingly being used as a cost-efficient alternative – a technology with which we at ISC Konstanz have decades of experience.
Our services for the aerospace industry
We develop customised c-Si solar cells for satellite applications and offer
- Development and optimisation of solar cells for use in space
- Improved predictions of performance and degradation
- Production of bifacial p-type solar cells
- Production of back-contact p-type solar cells
- Studies on the radiation degradation of c-Si solar cells
- Cooperation with partners for assembly and testing
- Support for space tech companies in production and training
Our successes in the aerospace PV industry
- Development of p-type technology since 2005
- Specialisation in p-type space PV since 2017
- In-depth knowledge of solar cell concepts for various space conditions
- Optimisation of cell processes with detailed tests
- Close cooperation with cell manufacturers & technology transfer
Are you planning a satellite mission and need innovative solar cell solutions? Get in touch with us!
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