Ascent Solar’s Flexible PV Blankets to Power NOVI’s Geo-Intelligence Spacecraft

Event summary

  • Ascent Solar’s PV blankets integrated into NOVI’s N1-ATLAS spacecraft, set for SpaceX Falcon 9 launch in spring 2026.
  • NOVI’s GENIE platform to provide low-cost, low-latency Earth observation data.
  • Ascent’s flexible CIGS array generates 150W, reducing mass and volume compared to traditional silicon solar arrays.
  • Partnership aims to drive cost savings and efficiency improvements for NOVI’s planned constellation.

The big picture

Ascent Solar’s collaboration with NOVI highlights the growing demand for lightweight, flexible solar solutions in the space sector. The integration of Ascent’s PV blankets into NOVI’s N1-ATLAS spacecraft underscores a broader industry shift towards cost-effective, high-performance solar technology. This partnership could set a precedent for future space missions, emphasizing efficiency and sustainability in satellite design.

What we're watching

Cost Efficiency
Whether Ascent Solar can sustain cost savings for NOVI’s constellation.
Technological Adoption
The pace at which flexible PV solutions replace traditional silicon arrays in spacecraft.
Market Expansion
How this partnership positions Ascent Solar in the competitive space solar market.