Dhruva Space to use $1.6 million funding from TDB for developing satellite solar panels

Hyderabad-based Dhruva Space will use $1.6 million it got recently as part of a larger investment for developing solar panels for satellites, Department of Science and Technology's Technology Development Board said on April 24.

The board’s investment was part of $9 million that Dhruva secured from a clutch of investors. While the funding figure was announced on April 22, the specific use of the investment had not been disclosed.

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to power a satellite's various systems, including communication equipment, scientific instruments, and propulsion.

"We are excited to support M/s Dhruva Space in their endeavour to develop cutting-edge space-grade solar array technologies. This project perfectly aligns with TDB's mission to promote indigenous innovation and strengthen India's capabilities in domestic production, furthering India's commitment to becoming a global hub for advanced and cost-effective space technologies," TDB secretary Rajesh Kumar Pathak said.

The primary objective of the project is bring innovations in solar panel manufacturing to meet the rigorous demands of on-orbit usage.

The project entails adoption of new materials like carbon fibre and resins for substrate side IP to enhance performance and durability. It also focuses on process innovations in solar cell assembly (SCA) through novel stringing and bonding techniques.

Dhruva Space aims to manufacture high-efficiency solar panels using triple junction GaAs technology, targeting an efficiency of up to 30 per cent, the TDB said in a release.