8 October 2014

Vanguard Space Technologies selects Ascent’s CIGS PV modules to develop solar arrays for space and UAV Missions

Ascent Solar Technologies Inc of Thornton, CO, USA, which makes lightweight, flexible copper indium gallium diselenide (CIGS) thin-film photovoltaic modules, is to provide modules to Vanguard Space Technologies for two additional Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) programs.

Vanguard will utilize proprietary space environment protection technology along with automated manufacturing approaches, combined with Ascent’s flexible PV, to create a very thin, high power-to-weight ratio, large space solar arrays for space, as well as for novel integration into the wings of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

“We are honored to have been chosen again by Vanguard Space Technologies for these projects,” said Dr. Joseph Armstrong, chief technology officer of Ascent Solar. “Our existing flexible, monolithically integrated CIGS product represents an excellent starting point for a wide range of applications, including Vanguard’s space and UAV-based products. Our production CIGS represent an excellent option to futuristic solar cells where availability is as critical to mission success as our flexibility, light weight, and durability have been. Our growing relationship with Vanguard represents an exciting partnership for developing new products in these challenging markets.”

Matt Wrosch, manager of Solar Power Systems at Vanguard, added, “The advent of our extreme environment thin film coatings, automated manufacturing friendly array design, and Ascent’s proven cell technology provides an excellent fit for our ongoing investigations into next generation durable, affordable, large-area space solar arrays and also extended range UAV solar wing-skins.”

Tags: Ascent Solar CIGS Solar cells

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