Sharp Corporation is set to exhibit its latest solar cell technologies at the 40th Annual Small Satellite Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah, from August 23 to 26, 2026. The event is a significant gathering for experts from global space agencies, companies, and research institutions involved in the small satellite sector.
At the Japan Booth, organized by Japan Space Systems, Sharp will present two main types of space solar cells aimed at the expanding Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite market. The first type, known as the Film-Sheet Type, features a sheet structure with solar cells encapsulated in a thin film. This design offers lightweight characteristics and the flexibility needed for installation on curved surfaces. The technology was previously used on the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) mission, which achieved a high-precision lunar landing in January 2024. The solar cells continued to supply power for several months post-landing, showcasing their reliability in harsh conditions.
The second exhibit, the Glass-Covered Cell Type, includes a Coverglass Integrated Cell (CIC) structure, where cover glass is bonded directly to each cell. Utilizing Sharp's proprietary interconnect technology, this structure maintains the thin form factor typical of thin-film compound solar cells while delivering high efficiency and low weight. This technology has been selected for use in the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)'s Martian Moons eXploration (MMX) mission, scheduled for launch in fiscal 2026. A model with the same structure as the thin-film compound solar cells intended for the MMX spacecraft will be on display.
The conference will be held at the Salt Palace Convention Center, with Sharp's exhibits located at the Japan Booth #513. The event will provide an opportunity for industry professionals to engage in technical presentations, exhibitions, and business meetings, highlighting advancements in the small satellite market.