High efficiency hybrid perovskite and organic photovoltaics (HOPVs) are being advanced as alternatives to silicon-based photovoltaic devices for space applications. The thin, lightweight and flexible nature of HOPVs is well suited for providing power on space missions. When exposed to cosmic particle radiation under laboratory conditions, HOPVs show a superior radiation hardness compared with Si or triple-junction space solar cells as well as recovery and self-healing effects after exposure.

Perovskite and organic solar cells were tested during a 7 minute suborbital flight. Source: Benjamin Predeschly/Technical University of MunichTo better determine suitability for such use, the devices must be exposed to a demanding rocket launch, ultra-high vacuum environments and micro-gravity conditions. These experimental parameters were achieved by the launch of solar cells of different architectures on a suborbital rocket flight. This in situ demonstration conducted by researchers from Technical University of Munich evaluated device functionality and power generation under space conditions.

The 7 minute flight on a suborbital sounding rocket launched from Esrange Space Center, Sweden, attained an altitude of 240 km. The solar cells demonstrated efficient performance and exceeded power densities of 7 to 14 mW/cm² and effectively withstood strong UV light exposures and ultra-high vacuum conditions. The research reported in Joule also documented power output in cells receiving weak diffuse light reflected from Earth's surface instead of direct solar radiation.