- 30th October 2006 -

Spectrolab Produces Two Millionth Multi-Junction Solar Cell

Boeing announced that Spectrolab, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary, has produced its two millionth multi-junction, GaAs-based solar cell.

Spectrolab, the industry-leading solar cell producer, pioneered this type of cell in 1983, perfecting the technology for production several years later. Spectrolab?s advancements gave satellite operators the option of doubling satellite power and increasing potential revenue or controlling costs by reducing spacecraft size without sacrificing capability.
"We're very proud of Spectrolab's heritage in the space industry and the integral role it has played in making space-based solar power what it is today," said Howard Chambers, vice president and general manager, Boeing Space and Intelligence Systems.

Spectrolab's on-orbit products are creating more than 575 kilowatts of total power for agencies like NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and high performance commercial spacecraft for customers such as DIRECTV and Thuraya.
"In 2007, we’ll offer our next-generation triple junction solar cell, which will be 30% efficient. Long-term, we plan to achieve 40% efficiency space solar cells through further advancements in our multi-junction technology”.

Web: http://www.spectrolab.com