FLEXELL AND SATORO TARGET 2027 FOR NEXT-GEN SOLAR CELL VALIDATION
Flexell Space and Satoro have partnered for two in-orbit demonstration missions aboard SpaceX Falcon 9 rockets to validate CIGS and perovskite solar technologies.
# POWER INFRASTRUCTURE: IN-ORBIT VALIDATION
South Korean energy developer Flexell Space and Singaporean CubeSat specialist Satoro have formalized a strategic partnership to conduct in-orbit demonstration (IOD) missions for next-generation solar technology. According to SpaceNews, the collaboration focuses on validating Flexell’s proprietary solar cells under true orbital conditions.
MISSION PARAMETERS
The roadmap includes two dedicated demonstration missions scheduled for 2027 and 2028. Both payloads are slated for deployment via SpaceX Falcon 9 launch vehicles. Under the terms of the agreement, Satoro will leverage its "Satellite-as-a-service" framework to manufacture the CubeSat platforms and manage mission integration. Flexell Space will provide the test modules and solar cells, prioritizing the collection of longitudinal performance data.
TECHNOLOGY FOCUS
Flexell Space—a spin-off from Hanwha Systems—is currently engineering power solutions utilizing CIGS (copper indium gallium selenide) and perovskite materials. The objective is to commercialize ultralight, large-area solar arrays that offer a low-cost alternative to traditional gallium arsenide (GaAs) junctions.
OPERATIONAL CONTEXT
These upcoming flights follow Flexell’s previous validation efforts aboard South Korea’s KSLV-II (Nuri) rockets in 2025 and 2026. The new data collected with Satoro will allow engineers to reconcile ground-based environmental testing with actual radiation and thermal cycling performance in the vacuum of space. CEO Taehun Ahn noted that securing these flight opportunities is a critical prerequisite for global commercial supply, providing the technical evidence required by satellite prime contractors.