Ascent Solar Expands Thin-Film Technology Testing in Extreme Ocean and Space Environments

Ascent Solar Technologies Inc. (NASDAQ: ASTI) has delivered test samples to two customers to evaluate its thin-film photovoltaic technology in extreme environments, expanding its applications from space exploration to ocean monitoring. The company's featherweight, flexible, and durable CIGS thin-film PV solutions are being tested by an ocean monitoring technology company that develops autonomous underwater vehicles and a manufacturer of cutting-edge power lasers for the space and defense industries.

The ocean monitoring company will assess Ascent's solar technology for functionality and durability in aquatic terrestrial applications, with the goal of enabling persistent operation of ocean-based monitoring technologies. Meanwhile, the space and defense industry customer will test the PVs' space-based power beaming receiving capabilities as part of efforts to develop technologies for transmitting power between satellites in orbit. These tests represent Ascent's ongoing expansion into both underwater and space markets where its technology's unique properties can thrive.

Paul Warley, CEO of Ascent Solar Technologies, stated that underwater and space applications present unique opportunities for thin-film PV technology due to its lightweight, flexible, and durable design that can withstand immense pressures and extreme conditions. The company's products perform well in low-light conditions and extreme temperatures while being durable, long-lasting, and more cost-effective to manufacture than existing alternatives. Ascent's manufacturing advantage includes the ability to deliver solar arrays in six to eight weeks, significantly faster than competitors who typically require nine to twelve months for delivery.

The growing demand for environmentally friendly power solutions is driving market expansion in both marine and space applications. The marine environment solar market is projected to grow from $1.2 billion to $3.5 billion by 2033, while the space industry represents a $6.8 billion opportunity for Ascent by 2040. This growth is fueled by regulatory changes, global efforts to reduce carbon footprints, and technological advances that make solar power more viable across industries.

Ascent's recent partnerships build on existing successes in space applications. The company previously collaborated with NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, supported by NASA Glenn Research Center, to develop space-based power systems using Ascent's CIGS PV modules for receiving beamed power. Additionally, Ascent partnered with NOVI Space Inc. this summer to provide rollable PV array blankets for AI-powered satellites that deliver real-time Earth Observation insights from space. The company manufactures its CIGS PV products at its Thornton, Colorado, 5MW production facility, leveraging years of research and development.

These developments position Ascent Solar at the forefront of expanding solar technology applications into increasingly challenging environments, potentially transforming how power is generated and transmitted in both oceanic and space exploration contexts. The successful testing with these new customers could open significant market opportunities in marine monitoring and space-based power transmission systems, contributing to more sustainable exploration and communication technologies worldwide.