US Ascent Solar Expands Space Photovoltaic Testing Program

en.Wedoany.com Reported - Ascent Solar Technologies has expanded the scope of its thin-film space solar testing program beyond its previous low Earth orbit testing procedures.

This testing update targets Ascent's copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) photovoltaic modules and is a response to previous test results from the U.S. National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). In its testing, NASA found that CIGS modules demonstrated the potential to recover from radiation exposure through self-annealing characteristics, a phenomenon subsequently described by scientific journals as "significant recovery." In response, Ascent is preparing a series of internal testing and characterization activities aimed at validating the survivability and performance of its thin-film solar technology under increasingly harsh space conditions; these activities are scheduled for completion by the end of 2026 and will determine whether CIGS photovoltaic modules are suitable for medium Earth orbit and other more demanding missions.

Paul Warley, CEO of Ascent Solar Technologies, stated that emerging space markets such as orbital servicing and assembly, space-based solar power, and orbital data centers rely on power systems capable of operating reliably in extremely harsh environments; mission operators are increasingly prioritizing risk reduction and enhanced long-term performance.

The company stated that the new research objectives aim to expand the scope of scientifically validated effects of CIGS photovoltaic modules, confirming whether "significant recovery" may be achievable in more severe radiation environments such as medium Earth orbit, geostationary orbit, and other high-energy orbital regimes.

If testing is successful, Ascent will significantly strengthen the qualification of its branded CIGS thin-film photovoltaic solar products, positioning them for entry into a broader range of space applications, including missions at orbital altitudes higher than the International Space Station (located in low Earth orbit).

Warley also stated that by expanding the validation scope of CIGS products beyond low Earth orbit, the company will establish itself as the lowest-risk option for a wide range of next-generation space mission applications.

The company's photovoltaic modules are currently deployed on multiple space missions and are used in various aviation vehicles, agrivoltaic installations, and commercial and industrial buildings.