SunDrive Solar and Space Machines Company have partnered to develop solar panels for spacecraft applications
The collaboration will explore the use of copper-based heterojunction solar cells to reduce material costs and panel weight
The first phase will include prototype development and testing under conditions like those experienced during launch and in space
Australia-based SunDrive Solar and Space Machines Company (SMC) have entered into a research and development (R&D) partnership focused on solar panels for spacecraft. The collaboration combines SunDrive’s solar cell technology with SMC’s spacecraft engineering expertise to develop lightweight panels that can be manufactured in Australia.
The first phase of the project will focus on developing a solar panel for SMC’s next-generation spacecraft, Optimus Viper. The panel will be mounted directly on the spacecraft’s body to generate electricity during operation. The companies will also develop full-sized prototype panels, with the work scheduled to run until April 2027.
SunDrive has developed a copper-plating process that replaces silver with copper in solar cell manufacturing. As copper is less expensive than silver, the technology could help reduce material costs. The company has already demonstrated high-efficiency copper-based HJT cells for use on Earth.
In May 2025, the company partnered with Maxwell and Vistar to scale up its copper-plating technology for commercial HJT solar cell production (see SunDrive, Maxwell & Vistar Partner For Copper-Plated HJT Technology).
Later that year, SunDrive secured up to AUD 25.3 million in funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) (see SunDrive Secures New Funding For Copper Metallization Solar Cell Tech).
Reducing the weight of solar panels is particularly important for spacecraft, as it can help increase the capacity available for other equipment. Vince Allen, Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of SunDrive Solar, said, “SunDrive’s copper HJT technology brings together the ultra-thin, lightweight and high-efficiency performance needed for next-generation spacecraft solar arrays.”
The prototype panels will undergo vibration testing to simulate a rocket launch, along with vacuum and extreme-temperature tests. SMC’s Vice President of Engineering, Ian Partis, highlighted the importance of ensuring that solar panels can withstand these conditions while remaining lightweight. The results will help the companies assess the technology’s suitability for spacecraft applications.
SunDrive will be responsible for selecting the solar cells, developing the solar modules, and testing their electrical performance. SMC will work on the supporting panel structure, assess its strength and ability to handle temperature changes, and carry out assembly and testing. The companies will also jointly develop a method to attach the solar modules securely to the panel structure.
Australia currently depends on imported space-grade solar panels for its satellite projects. Through this collaboration, the companies hope to reduce reliance on overseas suppliers and offer lower-cost alternatives for future spacecraft.
According to the companies, the results of the first phase will determine the next steps. Future work could focus on flight-ready solar panels that unfold in space for use on SMC’s spacecraft and other satellites.
Solar technology for space applications will also be discussed at the TaiyangNews High-Efficiency Solar Technologies Conference 2026, taking place online on November 11, 20 and 25. The final day, November 25, will focus on Space PV, covering developments in solar cell technologies for use in space. Registration is free here