Idemitsu has opened its first US development laboratory for space-grade CIGS solar cells
The lab will support customer discussions, prototyping, evaluation, and reliability testing
The company plans to open a pilot manufacturing facility in Japan in 2027 to develop mass-production processes
Idemitsu Kosan has opened its first US laboratory for developing space-grade copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) solar cells. The Japanese company will use the facility to understand the needs of US satellite manufacturers and support its product and production development in Japan.
The laboratory is located at OASIS, a research and industry collaboration facility operated by the University of California, Santa Barbara. According to Idemitsu, the location provides access to US space companies as well as laboratory and office facilities.
The company stated that the lab will work with satellite manufacturers and other space companies to identify their technical needs. It will also support prototype production, cell testing, reliability checks, and technical analysis. It will share the findings with Idemitsu’s R&D teams in Japan and use them to improve the cells and their production processes.
Solar cells used in space must continue operating despite exposure to intense radiation. According to Idemitsu, its CIGS cells have strong radiation resistance, which could help them operate for longer periods. The company also says the technology uses fewer rare metals and could support higher production volumes at competitive costs.
The new US lab is part of Idemitsu’s plan to commercialize its space-grade CIGS cells. The company plans to open a small-scale manufacturing plant in Japan in 2027 to develop and test mass-production processes.
Idemitsu said that it will consider building full-scale production facilities, depending on market conditions and the progress of the technology.
The company is also testing its space-grade CIGS cells in orbit aboard the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s HTV-X1 space station resupply vehicle.
