Solar Cells from Lunar regolith

Revolutionizing Lunar Energy: TU Berlin Researchers Pioneer Solar Cell Production from Lunar Regolith

In a giant leap for sustainable space exploration, researchers at the Technical University of Berlin (TU Berlin) are breaking new ground with an innovative project that utilizes lunar regolith to create solar cells for future lunar bases. The joint venture, named “SoMo — An innovative manufacturing process for solar cells made of lunar regolith,” is receiving funding from the German Space Agency at the German Aerospace Center (DLR) as part of the “Research and Exploration” program. This groundbreaking initiative not only aligns with current international space strategies but also addresses the critical need for a self-sufficient power supply on the moon.

Glass sample from the lunar regolith simulant TUBS-T. Image issued by Technische Universität Berlin

The Significance of Lunar Solar Cells

The prospect of constructing a lunar base has become a focal point in international space endeavors, especially considering its potential role as a launching pad for future Mars missions. A key challenge lies in establishing a power supply that minimizes reliance on Earth. Dr. Thomas Driebe of…