Ascent Solar’s PV modules selected by Vanguard Space Technologies for additional programs to develop solar arrays for space, UAV missions

Ascent Solar Technologies, Inc. (Thornton, Colorado, U.S.) a manufacturer of flexible thin-film solar photovoltaic (PV) modules, was selected by Vanguard Space Technologies to provide modules for two additional Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) programs that require lightweight, flexible, and durable PV solutions.

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).

Ascent will leverage their experience with space-based and demonstrated UAV solar PV products to provide optimized variants of their production PV.

“We are honored to have been chosen again by Vanguard Space Technologies for these projects,” stated Dr. Joseph Armstrong, Chief Technology Officer of Ascent Solar.

Developing the next generation large-area space solar arrays

“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.”

“Vanguard is pleased to have these opportunities to incorporate Ascent’s CIGS cells into our solar array modules”, said Matt Wrosch, Manager of Solar Power Systems at Vanguard.

“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.”