Mitsubishi to Develop Solar Cells For Space-Bound Satellites
Mitsubishi has secured a contract with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) to lead development of domestic solar cells, cover glass and solar arrays for satellites under the Space Strategy Fund.
The six-year project, running from May 2025 to March 2031, aims to address critical supply shortages in the expanding satellite market.
Global demand for satellite solar components has surged alongside the growth of low Earth orbit constellations, creating supply bottlenecks that have driven up prices and extended delivery times.
The Space Strategy Fund represents a coordinated effort by Japan's Cabinet Office and three ministries to strengthen domestic space capabilities through private sector partnerships.
Partnerships and innovations
Central to Mitsubishi Electric's approach is collaboration with PXP Corporation, a Kanagawa-based start-up specialising in next-generation photovoltaic technologies.
The partnership will focus on developing perovskite/CIGS tandem solar cells that combine two advanced materials into a single unit.
These hybrid cells promise conversion efficiency matching conventional III-V solar cells while offering superior radiation resistance and lower manufacturing costs.
PXP Corporation, founded in 2020 by experienced solar panel engineers, brings expertise in perovskite and chalcopyrite technologies expected to define the next generation of solar cells.
Mass production, cost reductions
The project encompasses three key development streams: solar cells, protective cover glass and integrated solar arrays.
Mitsubishi Electric plans to leverage domestic glass manufacturing expertise to verify whether terrestrial glass products can withstand both launch and orbit.
This approach could enable mass production of low-cost cover glass specifically designed for space applications.
"Through the practical implementation of solar arrays equipped with domestically produced solar cells and cover glass that balance low cost and high performance, while ensuring resistance to the space environment and enabling mass production, we will help strengthen Japan's satellite supply chain and enhance the international competitiveness of the country's space industry," says Natsuki Asano, Senior Manager at Mitsubishi Electric's Kamakura Works.
The outlook for Japan's space sector
The initiative reflects Japan's broader strategy to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers for critical space technologies.
Mitsubishi Electric recorded revenue of US$36.8bn in the fiscal year ending March 2025, positioning it as a significant player in Japan's industrial landscape.
The company has participated in numerous JAXA projects and international satellite programmes, building expertise in space-qualified systems.
Success in developing cost-effective domestic alternatives could enhance Japan's competitiveness in the global satellite market, particularly as commercial space activity continues expanding.
The project's focus on scalable manufacturing processes suggests ambitions extending beyond meeting domestic demand to potentially serving international markets.
The urgency of the endeavour
The timing reflects urgent market pressures as satellite constellation deployments accelerate globally.
Low Earth orbit systems require hundreds or thousands of satellites, each demanding reliable power generation systems capable of withstanding radiation and extreme temperatures.
Current supply constraints have created opportunities for new entrants offering alternative technologies and manufacturing approaches.
Mitsubishi Electric's domestic production strategy could provide supply chain resilience while potentially capturing cost advantages through vertical integration.
The company plans to utilise components developed through this programme in its own satellite manufacturing operations, creating immediate market validation for the technology.
