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Completed TRL 2 (started at 2, targeting 4)
The challenge of this task is to develop low mass and high efficiency solar arrays for small spacecraft missions to deep space.
This task will develop advanced high-efficiency radiation-hard solar cells with LILT capability for deep space small spacecraft missions. It will determine LILT & radiation performance of baseline advanced solar cells; modify advanced cell designs to optimize for LILT and radiation; fabricate optimized advanced cells & demonstrate performance targets
This technology -Reduces power system mass, area and volume by ~20% -Reduces solar array cost by ~40% -Improves power generation in LILT/radiation environments -Extends capability of deep-space solar powered missions
Listed on TechPort itself — the most direct way to ask about this specific project.
This is early/mid-stage (TRL 2) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.
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