IMEC researchers, in collaboration with Hasselt University, EnergyVille, KU Leuven, the Aerospace Lab, and the University of Oklahoma, have demonstrated the strong potential of perovskite solar modules for future space applications. These conditions include temperature fluctuations, high humidity, intense UV radiation, and proton exposure to establish whether these lightweight and cost-effective solar technologies could reliably power next-generation satellites.

The results were positive and encouraging as the modules maintained impressive stability, with performance being largely unaffected by difficult conditions such as thermal cycling, damp heat, and radiation exposure. While extended periods of high-UV environments remain a challenge, the findings underline perovskite technology as a promising and cost-effective alternative to traditional satellite power solutions.

At IMEC’s facility, the development of these perovskite minimodules relied on advanced thin-film deposition techniques, an area where Angstrom Engineering’s equipment supports researchers by allowing for precise control over crucial vacuum-deposited layers. In studies like this and previous work with IMEC on perovskites such as the development of perovskite’s 78% power retention; Angstrom Engineering’s platforms play a vital role in helping IMEC scientists create uniform, high-quality films and clean interfaces, which are essential for improving device durability under extreme conditions.