Solestial is a U.S.-based solar energy company focused on developing silicon photovoltaic products for space applications. They specialize in producing ultra-thin, flexible silicon solar cells and modules designed to self-cure radiation damage and operate in the harsh conditions of space, particularly in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Solestial aims to provide lower-cost, durable, and scalable solar energy solutions for the new space economy, targeting satellite constellations, research projects, and future space infrastructure. They partner with organizations like DCUBED and Meyer Burger to develop and manufacture advanced solar arrays.
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Upon completion of the acquisition, Solestial will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary from its Tempe, Arizona facility.
Solestial demonstrated the ability to manufacture a complete solar array wing in one month.
Companies such as Solestial and Rocket Lab target power-to-mass ratios exceeding 500–800 W/kg for high-efficiency thin-film flexible space arrays.
DCUBED and Solestial have already worked together to build a solar panel for a smallsat project that is scheduled to fly in early 2024.
Solestial has developed a thin, flexible silicon solar cell with greater than 20% efficiency that can self-cure radiation damage at normal operating temperatures.
DCUBED and Solestial have already worked together to build a solar panel for a smallsat project that is scheduled to fly in early 2024.
Solestial, Inc. was awarded $849,954 for a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract from NASA.
To date, Solestial has received nearly $4,000,000 in contracts from NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the U.S. Air Force.
Solestial received a $149,987 Phase I SBIR contract in January 2023.
Solestial has received nearly $4,000,000 in contracts to date from NASA, the National Science Foundation, and the U.S. Air Force.
Solestial is collaborating with Opterus Research & Development, which will develop a low-cost, novel deployment system for Solestial’s ultrathin, flexible silicon solar blankets.
Solestial was awarded $849,954 for a Phase II Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) contract from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
Solestial received a $149,987 Phase I SBIR contract in January 2023 for the same program of work.
The Phase II SBIR contract awarded to Solestial has an 18-month duration and will provide funds to support development of next-generation 50-kilowatt class solar array wings.
Solestial will supply large solar blankets for two Atomos solar-electric orbital transfer vehicles slated to begin flying in late 2024 or early 2025.
Atomos plans to test a small Solestial photovoltaic panel on an orbital transfer vehicle demonstration launching on a SpaceX Transporter rideshare flight in early 2024.
The Atomos contract provides validation for Solestial’s technology from a customer with a demanding mission.
Solestial raised $10,000,000 in 2022.
Solestial will supply solar arrays for space tugs developed by Atomos Space.
Solestial's photovoltaic system will provide primary power for Atomos Space's solar-electric orbital transfer vehicles on two subsequent commercial missions beginning in late 2024.