Ascent Solar Secures Order for Thin-Film PV from Satellite Manufacturer

Ascent Solar Secures Order for Thin-Film PV from Satellite Manufacturer

by Clarence Oxford

Los Angeles CA (SPX) May 15, 2024

Ascent Solar Technologies, (Nasdaq: ASTI), a U.S. innovator in the design and manufacture of flexible, durable CIGS thin-film photovoltaic (PV) solutions, has received an order from a mega-constellation satellite manufacturer for initial delivery of PV modules for evaluation. The Ascent product will be evaluated for use in the manufacturer’s next-generation hardware.

Following delivery and the successful completion of the on-orbit technology evaluation for use in low Earth orbit (LEO), Ascent intends to design and manufacture Plug and Fly arrays with the customer for delivery as early as Q4 2024-Q1 2025. The arrays will provide primary power to the next generation satellites, reducing part count, weight, and system complexity.

Ascent’s products are the result of years of development and testing, including NASA’s MISSE-X experiment on the International Space Station (ISS) and advanced environmental testing by the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Recent testing has consistently exceeded expectations and outperformed alternative solar technologies regarding degradation from exposure to the space environment.

“Our technology is uniquely positioned for adoption by premier mega-constellation satellite manufacturing companies like this, ultimately demonstrating further proof-of-concept for our thin-film’s use in space environments,” said Paul Warley, CEO of Ascent Solar Technologies. “This globally recognized Company is at the forefront of the industry, and will leverage use of our advanced PV technology to further raise the bar. Many in the aerospace manufacturing industry understand that Ascent’s technology will reduce costs while providing a superior product capable of reliable, efficient performance in the harsh conditions of space.”

This initial order and the potential revenue it represents align with the Corporate Update released by Ascent on March 8, 2024, highlighting a rapidly growing market opportunity in the aerospace sector and Ascent’s goals for revenue generation.