United Solar Ovonic's lightweight, flexible UNI-SOLAR® modules coupled with the inherent superior high-temperature performance of the amorphous silicon solar cells, make the technology an ideal solution for government, defense and special PV applications.

In addition, the radiation hardness of amorphous silicon solar cells offer advantages for space applications.

United Solar Ovonic has been testing and evaluating the suitability of its technology and products under space conditions. NASA Lewis Center has measured a 12% beginning-of-life conversion efficiency for UNI-SOLAR® cells. Analysis of electron and proton bombardment data shows that the end-of-life efficiency of currently available UNI-SOLAR® space modules is comparable to that of conventional crystalline silicon modules. The UNI-SOLAR® modules, however, are less expensive and much lighter.

While many space qualification tests are continuing, UNI-SOLAR® modules have also orbited around the earth on board the MIR Space station. Telemetry data, gathered over a nineteen-month period, confirmed that the reliability of these products was well suited for space application.

United Solar Ovonic's strategy for introducing the amorphous silicon products into the space market is two-fold. United Solar is building cells and modules using its present roll-to-roll technology. Unlike the standard commercial products, the stainless steel will be only 0.5 to 1 mil thick. With a cell efficiency of 8%, this can produce in excess of 600 W/kg. The optimization and space-qualification phase of this program has been completed and solar cells are being supplied to space agencies and industries for evaluating and satellite missions.

Simultaneously, United Solar is investigating the use of lightweight Kapton® polyimide as a substrate to make extremely lightweight cells. This developmental program is aimed at producing modules which can generate >2000 W/kg at 10% efficiency. Two approaches are under investigation. In the first approach, cells on Kapton® having a structure similar to the stainless steel cells have been demonstrated in the research lab with 9% efficiency and specific power >1250 W/kg. The second approach on Kapton® uses a laser-interconnection process to build modules which can potentially supply 2500 W/kg. Funding for this program has been provided by the U.S. Air Force.

United Solar Ovonic is also exploring the use of its cells for Airship programs, and has been working with Lockheed Martin to address the requirements of the U.S. Department of Defense.