Space Power Systems

Power is critical for space missions and Internet Of Things (IoT) networks. Join the team investigating photovoltaic and betavoltaic devices for their huge potential in powering off-Earth energy systems.

Research goals

We are investigating photovoltaic and betavoltaic devices for their huge potential in powering off-Earth energy systems.

ChallENG Area

Vertically Integrated Projects

Research Areas

Photovoltaics Betavoltaics Space Science Power Systems Photovoltaics Data science Internet of Things Laser physics Radio-isotopes

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals

Good Health and Well-being: SDG3, opens in a new window
Affordable and Clean Energy: SDG7, opens in a new window
Decent Work and Economic Growth: SDG8, opens in a new window
Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure: SDG9, opens in a new window
Sustainable Cities and Communities SDG11, opens in a new window
Life on Land: SDG 15, opens in a new window

The research includes:

Developing photovoltaics (PV), betavoltaics (BV) and laser beaming systems for space applications
Designing flexible PV and BV energy harvesting devices and integrated IoT solutions
Enhancing PV efficiency and stability in space
Improving BV device efficiency through new semiconductor materials that have greater energy conversion and increased radiation resistance
Designing the ‘solar (power) ring’ device to power IoT networks
Designing and fabricating PV and BV devices for IoT applications
Designing and fabricating integrated power ring prototypes
Researching radiation tolerance of PV devices
Investigating the performance of several types of solar cells under low light intensities, different spectra and a wide range of temperatures

Investigating new materials and their efficiencies
Fabricating solar cells in lunar-like environments
Improving the operation, transfer efficiency and pointing accuracy of laser power beaming
Improving welding of space solar cell interconnects
Integrating different power systems for space missions to the Moon and for LEO CubeSats
Developing power systems for IoT devices
Developing database and data analysis capabilities for completed IoT solutions
Addressing the EQE (external quantum efficiency) artefacts in multijunction solar cells
Undertaking vacuum deposition of solar cell materials under conditions similar to those on the Moon
Combining antennas and solar cells for dual use on satellites